Toronto Blue Jays at New York Yankees (Image via Imagn Images). There is no confirmed trade that sends Randal Grichuk from Arizona to the New York Yankees to support Trent Grisham. Still, if a report like this appeared during the 2026 season, it would follow a familiar deadline pattern: a contender adds experience while another team moves a veteran for future value.If such a rumor surfaced in July, the reasoning would be simple. The Yankees would be looking for a right-handed hitter who can step into the lineup when needed without weakening the offense. At the same time, the move would allow Grisham to get occasional rest while keeping the lineup balanced.
Why the New York Yankees Might Consider Randal Grichuk
In this situation, New York Yankees are focused on a postseason run and wants another power option. Randal Grichuk could serve as a designated hitter against left-handed pitching or start in either corner outfield spot.Arizona could be willing to move the 34-year-old if the team is retooling. Turning a short-term player into a prospect is a common approach near the trade deadline.
Possible Structure of the Trade
New York Yankees receive: • Randal Grichuk, OF/DH – one-year, $2 million contract with a $5 million mutual option for 2027 or a $3 million buyout.Arizona Diamondbacks receive: • One mid-tier prospect from Low-A or High-A, or a depth reliever with minor-league options. • Around $1.5-2 million in payroll relief for the rest of 2026.The Yankees would take on the remaining salary and the option decision, while Arizona would gain a future asset instead of letting a veteran walk.
What the Move Offers Each Team
Randal Grischuk of Arizona Diamondbacks (Image via Getty)
New York Yankees: power and roster coverage
Randal Grichuk gives the Yankees a right-handed hitter with power who can fill multiple roles. He would provide manager Aaron Boone with another bench option and more flexibility in matchups.Supporting stats (career profile):MetricValue (career)Notes AVG/OBP/SLG ~.255/.300/.460 Solid power, modest on-base. HR per 600 PA ~22-24 Everyday-ish power. ISO ~.205 Strong isolated power. wRC+ (career) ~100-105 Slightly above average.Grichuk also produced strong numbers in 2024, hitting .291/.348/.528 with 12 home runs and 46 RBI in 106 games. That type of season shows he can still contribute if used in the right role.
Basic profile
• Age: 34 in 2026 • Contract: short-term • Expected role: fourth outfielder and designated hitterDiamondbacks: savings and future depthArizona has used Grichuk in right field, left field, and at designated hitter, typically starting about 60-70 games each season. A midseason trade would lower payroll, add a controllable player, and support a longer-term roster plan.
Pros and Cons of the Deal
New York Yankees’ pros
• Adds right-handed power • Provides coverage if Grisham misses time • Lower cost than most free-agent hitters • Can play multiple outfield spots
Yankees’ cons
• Age and past injuries create some risk • Below-average defense, especially in center field • Mutual option could become expensive if he performs well
Arizona Diamondbacks’ pros
• Reduces salary • Adds a prospect or bullpen depth • Fits a roster reset
Diamondbacks’ cons
• Lose a hitter capable of 20 or more home runs • Return may not become an impact player
Career Snapshot: Randal Grichuk vs Trent Grisham
PlayerAge (2026)Bats/ThrowsAVG/OBP/SLGISOHR/600 PAwRC+ (Career)Defense (UZR/DRS)Randal Grichul 34 R/R ~.255/.300/.460 ~.205 ~22-24 ~100-105 Below-average outfielderTrent Grisham 29 L/R ~.225/.325/.390 ~.165 ~15-17 ~95-100 Elite center-field defenderGrisham is known for defense, range, and speed. Grichuk offers more power but less value in the field and on base.Together, they would give the Yankees stronger defense in center and more power from the corners or designated hitter spot.
Who Benefits More?
The New York Yankees gain in the short term if Randal Grichuk produces around 15-20 home runs in a limited role and keeps the lineup steady during the stretch run. Arizona benefits if the incoming player develops into a major league contributor while the team avoids committing money to an older outfielder whose defensive value is declining.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Boston Red Sox might chase $400 million Detroit Tigers superstar in a blockbuster deal; Jarren Duran key trade asset
What It Would Mean
If the Yankees made a move like this, it would be viewed as a practical deadline addition rather than a major roster change. Deals like this often matter most in October, when depth becomes important, but they rarely shape the long-term direction of a franchise.