Yankees Looking to Add Right-Handed Bat: Four Players on Their Radar

As the New York Yankees gear up for the 2026 season, one of their main priorities remains securing a right-handed bat to balance their predominantly left-handed lineup. With the short porch in right field at Yankee Stadium, it’s no surprise that the Yankees have leaned heavily into left-handed hitters in recent years. However, as it stands, the team only has three right-handed hitters slated for the starting lineup. With spring training quickly approaching, the Yankees are looking to address this gap by adding another right-handed bat, and four names are currently on their radar.

A Slim Pool of Options: Yankees Seeking Depth

The free-agent market for right-handed bats this offseason is relatively thin, but the Yankees are still actively seeking out potential additions. While some players who could have been good fits, like Eugenio Suárez, are no longer in the conversation, the team has targeted four players who could provide the offensive depth they need. According to Jon Heyman on MLB Network, the Yankees are focusing on Paul Goldschmidt, Ty France, Austin Slater, and Randal Grichuk as possible additions to the roster.

As Heyman mentioned, “They are definitely going to sign one,” signaling the Yankees’ intent to bolster their roster before the start of the season.

Paul Goldschmidt: A Familiar Face with a Familiar Role

The possibility of bringing Paul Goldschmidt back to New York has been widely discussed. Goldschmidt spent the 2025 season with the Yankees and is already familiar with the team and the ballpark. The 2022 National League MVP may no longer be in his prime, but he is still capable of providing solid production, particularly against left-handed pitching.

In 2025, Goldschmidt slashed .274/.328/.403 with 10 home runs, 45 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 104. While his power numbers were down compared to his peak years, he was still an important contributor to the Yankees’ lineup. The team is in need of a right-handed hitter who can perform against left-handed pitchers, and Goldschmidt’s impressive .336/.411/.570 slash line against southpaws last season could make him a valuable asset for New York. However, to return to the Yankees, Goldschmidt would likely have to accept a pay cut and be willing to take on a platoon role, primarily facing lefties.

Goldschmidt’s veteran presence, especially his ability to deliver in clutch moments, could provide the Yankees with a reliable option off the bench when facing left-handed pitchers, which would be a key move for New York heading into 2026.

Austin Slater: A Familiar but Risky Option

Austin Slater, who joined the Yankees during the 2025 season, has also been on New York’s radar. The right-handed hitter initially struggled to find his rhythm at Yankee Stadium, posting an abysmal .120/.120/.120 slash line in 14 games with the Yankees. However, Slater had more success against left-handed pitchers during the 2025 season, finishing the year with an OPS over .700 against lefties.

Slater’s struggles with the Yankees last season make him a risky option, but his success against left-handed pitchers could make him a useful platoon player for the team. The Yankees have already made a contract offer to Slater, which suggests they see value in his potential as a bench player who can step in when needed. If Slater can rediscover his form from earlier in the season, he could provide a solid right-handed option for the Yankees, especially in matchups against left-handed pitching.

Ty France: A Solid Hit for the Yankees’ Bench

Ty France has also emerged as a target for the Yankees. France, who was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2025 season, brings experience from the American League East and postseason play. Though France would likely be a platoon player in New York, his ability to hit for average and stay healthy makes him an attractive option for the Yankees.

In 2025, France slashed .257/.320/.360 with seven home runs and 52 RBIs. While his numbers were a bit underwhelming, particularly against left-handed pitchers, his consistent bat and ability to contribute in various situations could be valuable for the Yankees. With Ben Rice earning the chance to be the starting first baseman, France may not get a full-time role, but his ability to step in when needed would be an asset to New York’s lineup.

France’s playoff and World Series experience would also add a layer of credibility to the Yankees’ roster, giving them another reliable bat that could come through in the postseason.

Randal Grichuk: The Right-Handed Platoon Bat

Randal Grichuk is another player the Yankees have been keeping an eye on. Known for his ability to hit left-handed pitching, Grichuk could fill the platoon role that the Yankees are seeking. Last season, Grichuk hit seven of his nine home runs against lefties, posting an OPS over .700 against southpaws.

While Grichuk is not an everyday player, his ability to contribute in matchups against left-handed pitchers makes him a solid choice for the Yankees. The team would likely use Grichuk as a platoon bat, which would allow them to take advantage of favorable matchups while limiting his exposure to right-handed pitchers. Grichuk may not be the Yankees’ top choice, but his experience and ability to hit lefties make him a viable option to bolster their bench.

What’s Next for the Yankees?

With spring training just around the corner, the Yankees are running out of time to make a move, but the addition of a right-handed bat remains a priority. While Goldschmidt and France offer experience and stability, Slater and Grichuk could provide the team with more depth and versatility, especially in platoon roles against left-handed pitching.

For the Yankees, making the right move in adding another right-handed bat could help them create a more balanced lineup, giving them a better chance to compete in the tough American League East. Whether they bring back a familiar face like Goldschmidt or take a chance on a player like Slater or Grichuk, adding a right-handed bat will be crucial for the Yankees’ success in 2026.

As the team prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on who the Yankees ultimately choose to add to their lineup. With these four players still in the mix, the Yankees could be ready to make a move that strengthens their offense and sets them up for another postseason run.