Paul Goldschmidt and the New York Yankees reached an agreement on a one-year, $12.5 million contract on Saturday, according to a source familiar with the discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity, as the deal is pending a successful physical.
Goldschmidt’s signing marks the Yankees’ fourth major acquisition since losing Juan Soto to the New York Mets, following the additions of left-hander Max Fried, closer Devin Williams, and outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger. With Goldschmidt’s arrival, Bellinger is expected to primarily play in the outfield.
The Yankees are still seeking a third baseman and left-handed relievers, as their 40-man roster currently lacks any lefty relievers.
A seven-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and the 2022 NL MVP, Goldschmidt joins fellow MVPs Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Bellinger on the Yankees roster. He became a free agent after completing a five-year, $130 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Over his career, Goldschmidt spent eight years with Arizona and six with St. Louis. Though he posted a career-low .245 average last season with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs, he rebounded in the latter part of the season, hitting .283 with seven homers and 25 RBIs from July 28 onward. Goldschmidt’s career numbers include a .289 batting average, 362 home runs, and 1,187 RBIs.
Additionally, the Yankees finalized a one-year deal with right-hander Jonathan Loáisiga, which includes a club option for 2026. Loáisiga, recovering from Tommy John surgery in May 2023, is expected to return by late April or May.
Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake mentioned that Loáisiga will likely be a high-leverage option once he is fully recovered, but the team will be cautious in bringing him back into competition.
