Hal Steinbrenner is the only one who truly understands where the Yankees’ salary will sit in 2026, and he has expressed some doubts about maintaining a salary above $300 million. This situation raises questions about sustainability.
On Thursday, Brian Cashman, the general manager, was somewhat tight-lipped about his offseason budget but mentioned that he has the flexibility needed to improve the team’s lineup. “I think we’re in a good spot,” he remarked before attending the Covenant House Sleepout event at the Javits Center, noting the need to explore available options and their varying costs.
Following Trent Grisham’s acceptance of a $22.025 million qualifying offer, the Yankees’ projected luxury tax salary for 2026 has already climbed to around $281 million. When asked about the possibility of keeping the figure below $300 million, Cashman didn’t commit confidently.
“I think it could go both ways,” he said. “It depends on how things go and what opportunities come up.”
He clarified that while Steinbrenner hasn’t set a rigid budget, there’s an indication that the owners are open to discussions, albeit with some conditions in play. For instance, if Cody Bellinger returns, the salary could easily exceed $300 million before any other changes are made.
“I’m good with money,” Cashman joked, lightening the mood.
As the Yankees approach Friday’s 8 p.m. deadline for non-tendering players, they have some intriguing choices for adding arbitration-eligible relief pitchers, including Mark Leiter Jr., Ian Hamilton, Jake Cousins, and Scott Efros.
Cashman indicated they have a strategy and that discussions with the club could lead to trades or other adjustments before the tender deadline. He also planned to connect with candidates who won’t receive tenders on Friday morning, despite the late night he had at the Sleepout, which aims to shed light on youth homelessness.
“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone,” Cashman reflected on the experience. He contrasted his one-night stint on the streets with the harsh reality faced by homeless youth, who nightly struggle to find safety and sustenance. It’s a sobering thought that he can only imagine.
