ESPN Experts Predict Big Seasons for Yankees Roster

Forecasts call for breakout years from Trent Grisham, Ben Rice, Gerrit Cole, and Ryan Weathers

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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ESPN's Eric Karabell has made some bold predictions for the New York Yankees' 2026 MLB season, including big offensive years from outfielders Trent Grisham and Ben Rice, as well as strong returns from pitchers Gerrit Cole and Ryan Weathers. Karabell foresees multiple Yankees hitters reaching the 30-home run mark and Cole making a successful comeback from injury.

Why it matters

The Yankees are looking to bounce back after falling short of the World Series in recent seasons. If these predictions come true, the Yankees would have a formidable roster capable of making a deep postseason run and potentially winning their first championship since 2009.

The details

Karabell predicts that Grisham will hit 30 home runs and draw 90 walks, while Rice will also hit 30 homers. In total, Karabell sees six Yankees players reaching the 30-homer plateau. On the pitching side, Karabell forecasts that Cole will make 22 starts after returning from injury in May, winning 14 games with a 3.20 ERA. Newly acquired starter Ryan Weathers is predicted to post a 3.50 ERA in 24 starts.

  • Gerrit Cole is expected to return from injury in May 2026.
  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Trent Grisham

An outfielder for the New York Yankees who is predicted to hit 30 home runs and draw 90 walks in the 2026 season.

Ben Rice

A Yankees outfielder who is projected to also hit 30 home runs in 2026.

Gerrit Cole

The Yankees' star pitcher who is expected to make a successful return from injury in May 2026, winning 14 games with a 3.20 ERA.

Ryan Weathers

A new addition to the Yankees' starting rotation, predicted to post a 3.50 ERA in 24 starts during the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“If all those things happen, the Yankees would be looking at a particularly special season. They've got tons of talent, and if Judge and Max Fried can get help, the Yanks will be dangerous at the end of the year again.”

— Eric Karabell, ESPN Analyst (Sporting News)

What’s next

The Yankees will be closely watched as they aim to return to the World Series in 2026, with key players like Gerrit Cole and new additions like Ryan Weathers expected to play pivotal roles.

The takeaway

These bold predictions from ESPN highlight the high expectations for the Yankees in 2026, with the potential for a potent offense led by breakout seasons from Trent Grisham and Ben Rice, as well as a bounce-back campaign from ace Gerrit Cole. If these forecasts prove accurate, the Yankees could be poised for a deep playoff run and a chance to win their first championship in over 15 years.