Yankees' Paul Goldschmidt makes obvious 'running it back' spring training statement

Never say never, but this may very likely be Paul Goldschmidt's final year of his illustrious career. 

The 38-year-old first baseman re-signed with the New York Yankees last week and will serve as the backup to Ben Rice at first. It is in that role that Goldschmidt may also be valuable as a late-inning defensive replacement and pinch hitter against left-handed pitching. 

After an offseason with minimal external additions, general manager Brian Cashman disagreed with the notion that the Yankees are "running it back" with the same roster. Relievers Luke Weaver and Devin Williams are the only two players from last year's ALDS not on the current roster. 

Goldschmidt knows what may be coming 

Goldschmidt believes people will blame the "running it back" strategy if the Yankees fail to reach expectations in 2026. 

"If we play well, it'll be a good thing," Goldschmidt told reporters, including MLB.com's Bryan Hoch. "If we don't, then it'll probably be said that's the reason we didn't play well." 

While Goldschmidt's statement is obvious, it is also likely accurate. The Yankees won 94 games last year, tied for an AL high with the Toronto Blue Jays. Though another early exit in the postseason will have fans questioning the roster decisions and manager Aaron Boone's future. 

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