Yankees Re-Sign Paul Goldschmidt on Surprising One-Year Deal

Veteran first baseman shifts to platoon role, providing depth and veteran leadership

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Yankees have re-signed veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $4 million contract. Goldschmidt's role is expected to shift to a platoon-style position, primarily facing left-handed pitching, after the emergence of young slugger Ben Rice last season.

Why it matters

Goldschmidt's reduced role reflects the Yankees' desire to balance their left-handed heavy lineup, while also providing veteran leadership and experience off the bench. The move gives the team flexibility with their roster and lineup construction as they aim to build on their success from the previous season.

The details

Initially signed as the everyday first baseman last offseason, Goldschmidt's production declined in the latter half of the 2024 season, leading the Yankees to utilize him more selectively against left-handed pitching. With Rice's breakout campaign, the 38-year-old Goldschmidt will now serve in a platoon role, providing depth and veteran presence to the team.

  • Goldschmidt re-signed with the Yankees on February 6, 2026.
  • Clarke Schmidt was placed on the 60-day injured list, opening a roster spot for Goldschmidt's return.

The players

Paul Goldschmidt

A 38-year-old veteran first baseman who has been re-signed by the New York Yankees on a one-year, $4 million contract.

Ben Rice

A young slugger who emerged as the Yankees' primary first baseman in 2024, hitting 26 home runs with a .255/.337/.499 slash line.

Clarke Schmidt

A Yankees pitcher who was placed on the 60-day injured list as he recovers from Tommy John surgery, opening a roster spot for Goldschmidt's return.

Giancarlo Stanton

The Yankees' designated hitter who may miss time, allowing Goldschmidt to contribute at that position as well.

Austin Wells

The Yankees' left-handed hitting catcher who struggled against left-handed pitching, potentially creating opportunities for Goldschmidt to play first base against tough lefties.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Goldschmidt had opportunities to make more $$ elsewhere, but returns to the Yankees where his value is vs. LHP, as a defensive late-game option to defend for Ben Rice at 1b and clubhouse stabilizer.”

— Joel Sherman, New York Post reporter (Twitter)

“First baseman Paul Goldschmidt and the New York Yankees are finalizing a one-year contract, sources tell ESPN. Goldschmidt, 38, returns to the Yankees after hitting .274/.328/.403 for them last season.”

— Jeff Passan (ESPN)

“Paul Goldschmidt Yankees deal is for $4M”

— Jon Heyman (The New York Post)

What’s next

The Yankees will monitor Goldschmidt's performance in spring training to determine his exact role and playing time for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Goldschmidt's return to the Yankees on a team-friendly, one-year deal highlights the veteran's willingness to accept a reduced role in order to remain with a contending team. The move provides the Yankees with valuable depth and experience as they aim to build on their success from the previous season.