Yankees balance Aaron Judge’s window with a $22M Grisham decision

By tagging Trent Grisham with the one-year qualifying offer at $22.025 million, the New York Yankees invited a player-friendly decision that could reshape both the 2026 outfield and how they allocate the next big check.

Former GM Jim Bowden said on MLB Network Radio that Grisham “would be crazy not to accept,” given his profile and career earnings. If he does, the Yankees would carry a top-tier AAV for an outfielder whose defense declined in 2025 and is coming off his only season over 20 home runs while still trying to add star power.

 That’s where opportunity cost matters. 

On the depth chart, a “yes” from Grisham crowds things fast. Aaron Judge is locked in. Jasson Dominguez is fighting for a full-time spot. Spencer Jones is pushing for at-bats in 2026. Paying $22 million for an outfielder who only works if you’re convinced the 2025 power jump is real and the role won’t bottleneck higher-ceiling bats.

It also affects the “which star?” question, Bowden suggested. 

If New York prefers Cody Bellinger’s versatility and shorter-term structure over a Kyle Tucker mega-deal, a one-year Grisham number can be framed as insurance while they chase Bellinger—Bowden floated that read, too. The inverse is just as true: locking $22 million into depth might be the difference between winning or finishing second on the marquee bat they actually want.

It can work. 

If Grisham accepts, plays 120–130 games across all three spots, gives plus defense with 20-ish homers and on-base, and the Yankees still land Bellinger on terms that fit the 2026–27 plan. 

If Grisham surprisingly declines, New York pockets the comp pick and keeps full flexibility to go star-hunting. Either way, the choice isn’t about one year; it’s about keeping room for the swing that actually moves October.