Just before Aaron Boone noted the renewed energy from Trent Grisham at spring training, Brian Cashman mentioned that he had expected the fourth outfielder to have a bigger role last season after acquiring him from the Padres alongside Van Soto.
However, Grisham didn’t see much action last year. The Yankees’ top three outfielders were largely uninjured, and when Grisham did get the chance, he struggled a bit.
“Let’s see how this year unfolds,” Cashman remarked on Valentine’s Day.
“He has talent—good contact, a bit of power, and excellent defense. So we signed him and kept him around.”
But is this the same player? With 10 home runs in his first 31 games—more than he managed all of last season—and impressive stats like a 1.017 OPS and .292 batting average, he’s surprised even the Yankees.
Whatever expectations they initially had for him, Grisham has completely altered the narrative, stepping into a more significant role. Even on days he didn’t start in center field, he managed to make a notable impact, such as when he came off the bench to hit a crucial two-run homer against reliever Jason Adam in a recent game.
“We faced tough situations and rose to the occasion,” remarked Maxfried. “Grisham has been a big reason for our success.”
Last month, Boone suggested that Grisham’s limited number of at-bats early on may have hindered his performance last season.
This year, he’s already had 101 plate appearances—he didn’t reach that total until early July last season.
Grisham has adjusted well, noting earlier this year that he feels more mentally grounded, which he believes is key to his current success.
Criticism regarding his lack of starts last season seems to be hindsight. He averaged .190 with a .675 OPS and hit nine home runs in 76 games then, but he’s capitalized on another opportunity since rejoining the Yankees last November.
“I began to notice his improvement last July when he got consistent playing time alongside Giancarlo,” Boone said, referring to a stretch where Grisham hit .257 with a .766 OPS. “He was productive, and this spring, I saw him as more engaged defensively. That caught my attention.”
“He had a tough day the other day, but he’s making solid contact and showing good plate discipline. I’m excited to continue watching him play.”
Devin Williams, who played with Grisham in the Brewers’ system, also isn’t surprised by his progress. Williams remembers Grisham’s rocky start in 2019 when he hit .215 in his first 43 games.
He noted the power numbers were reminiscent of what Grisham is achieving now, demonstrating a significant improvement.
“I’ve always believed he was a strong hitter. It’s great to see him showcasing his abilities now,” Williams said.
