Before inking veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year deal in free agency, the Yankees explored trade options to address the position. According to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo, the team engaged in discussions with the Guardians about acquiring Josh Naylor, but a deal never materialized.
Instead, Naylor, entering his walk year, was traded to the Diamondbacks for minor-league pitcher Slade Cecconi and a Competitive Balance Round B draft pick. In Arizona, Naylor will replace Christian Walker, another first baseman linked to the Yankees this offseason. Walker ultimately signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Astros.
Castillo also noted that the Yankees considered veteran Carlos Santana before finalizing their agreement with Goldschmidt.
Yankees’ interest in Naylor despite ALDS tensions
Naylor, an All-Star in 2024, had a breakout year with Cleveland, slashing .243/.320/.456 while setting career highs in games played (152), home runs (31), and RBI (108).
His history with the Yankees dates back to the 2022 ALDS when he taunted Gerrit Cole after a home run, celebrating with a “rock the baby” gesture. The Yankees had the final word in that series, with Gleyber Torres mocking the celebration when New York advanced in Game 5. Despite the tension, the Yankees still pursued Naylor this winter, recognizing his offensive potential and strong contact metrics.
Had they landed Naylor, it would have mirrored their trade for Alex Verdugo last offseason—a short-term rental acquired via prospect capital. First base, like left field, has been a weak spot for the Yankees in recent years. However, Verdugo’s struggles in pinstripes may have influenced the team’s decision to ultimately sign Goldschmidt instead.
Paul Goldschmidt, a six-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner, offers the Yankees a significant upgrade at first base. While he had a down year by his standards in 2024, he showed signs of resurgence, hitting .271/.319/.480 over his final 62 games with the Cardinals.
His ability to hit left-handed pitching should help balance a Yankees lineup that leans left-heavy. Defensively, he provides a steady glove at first base, an area where the Yankees have struggled in recent seasons.
Steinbrenner confident in offseason additions
Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner recently spoke about the team’s moves in an interview with YES Network, emphasizing Goldschmidt’s leadership and impact on the roster. He also mentioned Cody Bellinger as another key piece, underscoring their importance following Juan Soto’s departure.
“I’ve heard great things about both of them, their leadership,” Steinbrenner said. “We’ve got a lot of young guys, and we’re going to continue bringing them up. Those are the kind of players you need along with [Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Gerrit Cole].”
With Goldschmidt in the fold, the Yankees are banking on the veteran’s resurgence to solidify first base—a position they actively sought to improve this winter.
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