Yankees' Final Bench Spot Remains Undecided

Oswaldo Cabrera and Randal Grichuk battle for last roster spot as Yankees finalize roster

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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As the New York Yankees finalize their roster for the upcoming season, one key position battle remains undecided - the final bench spot. Utility player Oswaldo Cabrera and outfielder Randal Grichuk are the top contenders, with Cabrera recovering from a significant ankle injury and Grichuk looking to earn a spot. The decision will come down to the next few weeks of spring training as the Yankees weigh their options.

Why it matters

The final bench spot is an important role, as it provides the Yankees with roster flexibility and the ability to cover multiple positions. With prospects like Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones waiting in the wings, the Yankees must carefully consider their options to balance the present and future needs of the team.

The details

Oswaldo Cabrera is the ultimate utility man for the Yankees, able to play multiple positions. However, he is recovering from a serious ankle injury sustained last May. Randal Grichuk, a veteran outfielder, is also in the mix for the final roster spot. The Yankees have other options, including prospects Max Schuemann, Paul DeJong, and Seth Brown, but Cabrera and Grichuk appear to be the frontrunners at this stage.

  • Cabrera has already logged a plate appearance and a walk in spring training, showing signs of progress in his recovery.
  • Grichuk has yet to see game action in spring training as the competition for the final bench spot continues.

The players

Oswaldo Cabrera

A versatile utility player for the Yankees who is recovering from a significant ankle injury sustained last May.

Randal Grichuk

A veteran outfielder who is competing for the final bench spot on the Yankees' roster.

Jasson Dominguez

A highly touted Yankees prospect who the team views as a future star, but is currently being developed in the minor leagues.

Spencer Jones

Another promising Yankees prospect who the team wants to see more development from in the minor leagues before considering a major league call-up.

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What they’re saying

“The 'run it back' Yankees have most of their roster settled at this point, but one of the most interesting calls could be their final bench spot.”

— Bryan Hoch, MLB.com writer (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Yankees will continue to evaluate Cabrera and Grichuk's performance over the next few weeks of spring training before making a decision on the final bench spot.

The takeaway

The battle for the Yankees' final bench spot highlights the difficult decisions teams face in balancing their current roster needs with the development of their top prospects. The outcome of this position battle could have significant implications for the Yankees' depth and flexibility throughout the season.