Yankees, Mets Battle to Sign Former All-Star, Gold Glove Free Agent

Both New York clubs are pursuing Ty France, a versatile first baseman with a strong defensive reputation.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Yankees and New York Mets are both reportedly interested in signing free agent first baseman Ty France, a former All-Star and Gold Glove winner. France split the 2025 season between the Twins and Blue Jays, batting .257 with a .681 OPS. He has a career .262 average and .735 OPS, with improved stats against left-handed pitching. The Yankees could use France as a platoon partner at first base with Ben Rice, while the Mets could use him as insurance at the position with Jorge Polanco set to play there despite limited experience.

Why it matters

The battle between the Yankees and Mets to sign France highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two New York clubs as they look to improve their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. France's versatility and defensive prowess make him an attractive target for both teams as they seek to bolster their lineups.

The details

Ty France is a former All-Star and Gold Glove winner who spent the 2025 season split between the Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays. He batted .257 with a .681 OPS that year, but has a career .262 average and .735 OPS, with improved stats when facing left-handed pitching. France won his Gold Glove in 2025 for his work at first base, where he has primarily played in recent years after previously seeing time around the infield.

  • France split the 2025 season between the Twins and Blue Jays.
  • France won his Gold Glove in 2025 for his work at first base.

The players

Ty France

A free agent first baseman who is a former All-Star and Gold Glove winner.

Ben Rice

A first baseman for the New York Yankees.

Jorge Polanco

A player for the New York Mets who is set to play first base despite limited experience at the position.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The battle between the Yankees and Mets to sign Ty France highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two New York clubs as they look to improve their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. France's versatility and defensive prowess make him an attractive target for both teams as they seek to bolster their lineups.