The New York Yankees entered the offseason needing a first baseman. They attempted to sign Christian Walker, but the deal fell through before Walker ultimately joined the Houston Astros. Although they traded for Cody Bellinger, they plan to use him in the outfield, keeping first base a priority.
The Yankees acted quickly, signing Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $12.5 million deal before other top first base options were taken. His signing triggered a series of moves, with Carlos Santana heading to the Guardians, Josh Naylor being traded to the Diamondbacks, and Nathaniel Lowe going to the Nationals.
Goldschmidt, who at 37 is a seasoned veteran, might prove to be a valuable signing despite his age. He had a down year with the Cardinals in 2023 but improved in the second half, batting .271 with nine home runs and 28 RBIs after the All-Star break.
Goldschmidt represents a significant upgrade at first base for the Yankees. Last season, players like Anthony Rizzo, DJ LeMahieu, Ben Rice, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Jon Berti struggled at the position. Goldschmidt immediately strengthens their lineup.
While bringing in an older player comes with risks, the Yankees have carefully targeted upgrades over last season’s options. They are also expected to continue bolstering their roster, with interest in free agent third baseman Alex Bregman and potential trade talks for Nolan Arenado.
With the market heating up as the year ends, how the Yankees will address their remaining needs this offseason remains to be seen.
