The New York Yankees are in search of a new first baseman and may look to add a seasoned veteran in free agency. After declining their club option on Anthony Rizzo, the Yankees have yet to secure a replacement for the position. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, New York has expressed interest in several candidates, including veteran slugger Paul Goldschmidt.
Nightengale reported that while the Yankees remain at a standstill with the Chicago Cubs regarding negotiations for outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, they have shifted their focus to the first-base market. The team is reportedly engaged in talks with four notable free agents: Pete Alonso, Christian Walker, Carlos Santana, and Goldschmidt.
Goldschmidt recently completed a five-year, $130 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals. At 37 years old, he may not be the same offensive force he was earlier in his career, when he regularly drove in over 120 runs, but he remains a productive hitter and reliable defender. For the Yankees, Goldschmidt could serve as a solid short-term solution on a one- or two-year deal, offering both stability at first base and a capable bat.
In the 2024 season with the Cardinals, Goldschmidt posted a .245 batting average with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs across 154 games. While those numbers are modest compared to his peak seasons, Goldschmidt still possesses notable power, with a career-high of 36 home runs and 125 RBIs. A seven-time All-Star and the 2022 NL MVP, Goldschmidt brings experience, leadership, and proven performance, making him a strong candidate to fill the Yankees’ void at first base.
