New York — Yankees general manager Brian Cashman delivered a clear message Thursday night. Trent Grisham’s $22.025 million qualifying offer acceptance won’t derail the team’s aggressive pursuit of Cody Bellinger and other key targets.
“Like anything else, there are certain salary levels that we’ll tag out at,” Cashman said at the Covenant House Sleep Out at Javits Center. “But we’ve driven hard to get things done at times.”
The GM’s comments came two days after Grisham surprised many by accepting the qualifying offer. The move pushed the Yankees’ projected 2025 luxury tax payroll to $281 million, according to Cot’s Contracts. Owner Hal Steinbrenner has previously called $300 million payrolls “unsustainable.”
Active negotiations reveal Yankees’ aggressive approach
Cashman revealed specific details about his recent negotiations. He spoke with agent Casey Close on Thursday about Kyle Tucker, the market’s top free agent outfielder. The conversation also covered Close’s other clients, including first baseman Paul Goldschmidt and right-hander Michael King.
Wednesday brought discussions with Scott Boras about Bellinger and Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai. These conversations signal the Yankees’ multi-pronged approach to roster improvement.
The GM emphasized his constant engagement with agents and fellow general managers. This networking represents standard practice for executives navigating the complex free agency landscape.
“Certainly engaging all these players in the marketplace and trying to find out what the cost of acquisition is and see how it would fit for us,” Cashman said.
Financial flexibility remains despite payroll concerns
When asked about staying under the $300 million threshold, Cashman offered a measured response. “I think it could go both ways,” he said. “It just depends on how things shake out and what opportunities present themselves.”
The GM hasn’t received a specific budget from Steinbrenner but indicated certain parameters exist. The owner remains willing to listen on potential acquisitions. Bringing back Bellinger alone would push the payroll over $300 million before any additional moves.
“I’m good at spending money,” Cashman said with a grin. “I think we’re in a good spot, and the job right now is to find out what’s available, and those all have different price points.”
The Yankees face several roster decisions before Friday’s 8 p.m. non-tender deadline. Arbitration-eligible relievers Mark Leiter Jr., Ian Hamilton, Jake Cousins and Scott Effross all require evaluation.
Grisham signing provides stability amid uncertainty
Cashman admitted he was “50-50” on whether Grisham would accept the qualifying offer. The center fielder ranked as the “third-best outfielder” in a thin market, according to the GM’s assessment. Waiting for Tucker and Bellinger to sign first would have carried risks.
“We’re happy he accepted because it’s one important piece taken care of,” Cashman said. “He gives us some comfort and security.”
The Yankees now have Aaron Judge and Grisham locked in for their outfield. Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones will compete for playing time. The organization still views external additions as priorities.
Grisham’s 2025 season featured 34 home runs and an .811 OPS. This production came after three consecutive below-average offensive campaigns. The Yankees believe his improvements are sustainable.
Bellinger pursuit continues as top priority
Cashman confirmed active discussions with agent Scott Boras about re-signing Cody Bellinger and acquiring Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai.
“I’m not going to tip our hands on going hard for anybody, [but] Bellinger is an obvious one,” Cashman said. “We can play a little bit and not be silly about not saying that.”
Bellinger remains the Yankees’ primary target among available outfielders. The former MVP would push the payroll over $300 million before any additional signings. Cashman signaled that won’t deter the front office.
He spoke with Boras on Wednesday specifically about Bellinger’s market. Those discussions provided insight into potential acquisition costs and contract structure.
Imai emerges as key focus
The Yankees’ conversation with Boras extended beyond Bellinger. Cashman revealed interest in Tatsuya Imai, a Japanese right-hander represented by the super agent.
Imai adds another dimension to the Yankees’ offseason strategy. The team seeks rotation depth after losing key contributors from their 2025 staff.
Cashman’s willingness to discuss multiple Boras clients suggests serious intent. The agent typically commands premium prices for his players, but the Yankees appear prepared to navigate those negotiations.
Cashman responds to criticism with humor
The GM acknowledged fan frustration about the Yankees’ quiet offseason. Social media critics have accused him of being “asleep on the job” while rival teams make moves.
Cashman created his own response during the Covenant House Sleep Out. While bundled in a sleeping bag on concrete, he joked about the situation.
“You know this is a meme about how Brian Cashman’s asleep on the job and not doing his job, ’cause I’ve seen that all over social media,” he told reporters, deliberately mispronouncing “meme.”
The lighthearted moment came during Cashman’s 14th year participating in the event. The Sleep Out raises funds and awareness for youth homelessness.
Trade market discussions intensify
Beyond free agency, Cashman confirmed active trade discussions with multiple teams. He scheduled a 9 a.m. Friday call with an agent representing a non-tender candidate.
“We know what we intend to do,” Cashman said about the deadline decisions. “We’re having conversations at the same time with clubs. We may be doing some business before the tender.”
The Yankees could make trades or sign deals before Friday’s deadline. Some players will receive non-tender status, making them free agents.
Cashman’s recent conversations have covered various targets beyond Tucker and Bellinger. Michael King, Paul Goldschmidt and Kyle Schwarber have all been discussion topics. The Yankees continue exploring multiple avenues for roster improvement.
The GM remains confident about his flexibility despite payroll considerations. His message to anxious fans stays consistent. The Yankees will pursue their targets aggressively, regardless of Grisham’s significant salary for 2025.
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