Trent Grisham's Impressive Turnaround

Trent Grisham has emerged as one of the most desired outfielders in the current free-agent class, a transformation that seems almost unbelievable. Just one year ago, he was on the verge of being non-tendered, struggling with a batting average below .200 for three consecutive seasons. Despite this, the New York Yankees decided to keep him but he agreed to a pay cut, earning $5 million for the season following a $5.5 million salary in 2024.

Grisham's Recent Performance

Grisham's performance in the 2025 season saw a significant improvement, boasting impressive numbers with a .235 batting average, 34 home runs, and 74 RBIs, tallying a bWAR of 3.5 and fWAR of 3.2. This newfound power raised questions about the sustainability of his performance, particularly as he enters free agency. His overall career statistics sit at .218/.321/.400 with 104 home runs, making his recent upswing all the more intriguing.

Teams are keen to assess whether Grisham's impressive season is a sign of his true potential or just a brief spike akin to previous players who experienced anomalous seasons. Comparisons have been drawn to players like Brady Anderson and Jacoby Ellsbury, who both enjoyed unexpected power surges during their careers. Spotrac estimates Grisham's market value at four years, $48.2 million, which may be lower than anticipated given trends in player contracts for young outfield talent.

Potential Suitors Eye Grisham

With an exciting free-agent season ahead, several teams appear interested in acquiring Grisham. Key players and their projected outfield setups highlight the various roles Grisham could fulfill. The Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Angels, New York Mets, Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Dodgers are all in the mix to potentially land the young center fielder.

The Yankees may also have a stake in his future, potentially extending him a $22 million qualifying offer. However, with other teams likely bidding for his services, the coming weeks will reveal how serious the competition is.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

Grisham's breakout year has opened doors for him that were previously closed and set the stage for intense bidding this offseason. With his blend of power and defensive prowess, he's become a prime target for teams looking to bolster their outfield. As 2026 approaches, the future is looking brighter for Trent Grisham, transforming him from a non-tender candidate into one of the most coveted free agents available.