Yankees $12.5 Million First baseman Named ‘Biggest Steal’ in the MLB for 2026

New York, New York – 05/02/2026

In a move that has stunned the MLB world, the New York Yankees have signed veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year deal worth $12.5 million, with some experts calling it the “biggest steal” of the 2026 offseason. Despite his age and declining power, Goldschmidt's consistency and leadership remain valuable assets for the Yankees, especially in a platoon role alongside young first baseman Ben Rice.

Goldschmidt, 38, spent the 2025 season with the Yankees after a successful career with the St. Louis Cardinals. While his stats from 2025 were fairly average—.274 batting average, 10 home runs, 45 RBIs, .731 OPS, and 1.2 WAR—he showed his strength against left-handed pitching, posting a .981 OPS in those matchups. His defensive presence at first base was solid, and while his power numbers have dipped over the years, he still provides a reliable bat in key situations.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Goldschmidt is eager to return to the Yankees, even if it's in a part-time role. The Yankees, who are over the luxury tax threshold, have been trying to squeeze payroll, and a reunion with Goldschmidt fits their needs perfectly, offering a valuable bench piece and platoon option at a relatively low cost.

Jack Curry from YES Network has confirmed that the Yankees have been in discussions with Goldschmidt about a possible return. MLB Trade Rumors and Yahoo Sports also report that the Yankees are interested in re-signing Goldschmidt, along with other potential additions like Nick Martinez and Austin Slater.

Despite being a part-time option, Goldschmidt offers much-needed depth at first base for the Yankees. While Ben Rice is a promising young player and the everyday option, Goldschmidt's ability to platoon effectively against left-handed pitchers provides a much-needed defensive upgrade and veteran presence. This makes him an ideal fit, even if he no longer starts every day due to age and the decline in his power numbers.

Goldschmidt's return to the Yankees is a calculated decision that offers flexibility for the team. He may not be an everyday starter anymore, but his ability to play against LHP and contribute defensively provides significant value in a platoon role. Much like the rumors surrounding veteran players like DJ Moore or Chris Jones in the NFL, Goldschmidt’s low-cost, veteran presence makes him a perfect fit for the Yankees' needs.

For the Yankees, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of strategic depth-building. With Goldschmidt on board, the team is poised to have the right mix of youth and experience, making the acquisition of the veteran first baseman a true “steal” in the MLB for the 2026 season.