In October, the club dismissed international scouting director Danny Rowland. The move came amid growing criticism of the Yankees’ results in the international market, and it was followed by the departure of several young prospects, including Dominican infielder Wandy Asigen, who ultimately signed elsewhere.

In a recent interview with The Athletic’s Brendan Kuty, general manager Brian Cashman publicly backed Rowland’s replacement, explaining why he believes newly promoted director Mario Garza is the right person to guide the department forward.

“He’s an amazing human being,” Cashman said. “Connect-ability is a really high character trait for him. So he’s a great baseball guy that has great personal skills. He is a great evaluator of talent.”

Cashman also emphasized Garza’s familiarity with the organization’s infrastructure. “He already knows all the personnel that we want to have. You want evaluation. You want firehoses connecting to performance science and analytics. That will give him a head start as we try to relaunch that department and move forward,” Cashman added.

A chance to make an impact

For Garza, the role represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Yankees have not won a World Series during his 16 years with the organization, something he openly acknowledged.

“I’ve been here 16 years, and that hasn’t happened,” Garza said, referring to winning a championship. “I think I have an opportunity to impact the organization in this area, and I think my skills line up for it.”

“I would concede it’s in his best interest to be getting everyday reps. We’ll just have to wait and see how the spring shakes out, who’s standing and then we’ll make the appropriate decisions when we have our meetings close to the end of camp,” Cashman said.

What Cashman is essentially saying is that Dominguez needs more plate appearances. With the Yankees’ current roster construction, it is highly unlikely he would get the consistent opportunities he needs at the major-league level. Triple-A could provide that rhythm at the plate, although it remains unclear whether he would spend the entire season away from the majors.

Dominguez the fourth outfielder

It is worth noting that Domínguez does not have a locked-in role in the Yankees’ outfield. Trent Grisham, who recently signed a new $22 million contract, appears to have a secure spot. That makes it unlikely Domínguez would receive just two or three reps per week in the majors.

“I think the ‘Jasson Dominguez can’t field’ narrative is lazy. We know he can’t field in left, but that’s not his NATURAL POSITION. He needs to be put in his proper position to make an evaluation on his true talent level. Until then, we’ll never know,” Brandon Furtado of What’s the Scoop (@brandonfurtado8) wrote on X.

Cashman was reluctant to send Domínguez to Triple-A last season, but the situation is different now, even though no final decision has been made. Last season, Domínguez hit .257, his second-best year so far with the Yankees, appearing in 123 games with 429 plate appearances.

When Grisham agreed to a one-year, $22.025 million deal, Cashman welcomed the certainty, and the Yankees gained stability in the outfield as the free‑agent market grew increasingly unpredictable.

“At this point, that $22 million looks like a bargain, the way the free-agent market got away from everybody,” Cashman said on SiriusXM’s MLB Network Radio. “We’re really happy he chose to stay. Hopefully, he can keep building on last year’s performance.”

Can Grisham repeat his breakout?

Grisham, 29, posted career highs in 2025 with 34 home runs, 116 hits, 74 RBIs, and a .235/.348/.464 slash line. His resurgence followed a difficult 2024, when he batted .190/.290/.385 while adjusting to a part-time role after being acquired from the San Diego Padres.

“I like when I can get my mind to this level,” Grisham said during the season according to MLB.com. “It’s a lot of fun to learn from that and produce on a nightly basis. It’s what I’ve always dreamed about.”

Yankees’ outfield depth

Cashman noted the team’s confidence in Grisham’s defense, despite a slight dip in 2025 due to a left hamstring injury. Manager Aaron Boone believes the outfielder could return to Gold Glove form with health and consistency.

With Cody Bellinger signed to a five-year deal and Aaron Judge in the lineup, playing time for young outfielders like Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones may be limited. “Injuries or lineup changes can open spots,” Cashman said. “We have a lot of depth, but opportunities are there if guys can step in.”

During a media session last week, Cashman highlighted several prospects who are “hungry and eager” for opportunities at spring training. “We have some emerging, talented players from our system,” he said. “And there might also be more imports like [Angel Chivili]. Stay tuned.”

Here are the players Cashman expects to make a significant impact next season:

• Elmer Rodriguez
• Carlos Lagrange
• Angel Chivili
• Cade Winquest
• Ben Hess

These prospects, combined with established stars like Cody Bellinger and Aaron Judge, position the Yankees for a potentially promising season, offering hope to their passionate fanbase.

Is there room for Cashman’s ‘young pups’ in the projected lineup?

While Cashman has expressed significant interest in these promising players, whether they will make the roster for the 2026 MLB season remains uncertain. However, positive performances during spring training could earn them spots on the 40-man roster. Here’s a glimpse of how they could fit in:

• Projected 2026 rotation (Early season)
  • Max Fried (major offseason addition)
  • Luis Gil
  • Ryan Weathers
  • Cam Schlittler
  • Cade Winquest (Rule 5 status secures his spot)
  • Next in line: Elmer Rodriguez & Ben Hess
• Projected 2026 Bullpen (Early season)
  • High-Leverage: Carlos Lagrange (the “100-mph” weapon)
  • Middle Relief: Angel Chivili, Jake Bird, Will Warren
  • Long Relief: Cade Winquest (if not starting)

As this scenario unfolds, the Yankees eagerly anticipate whether their ‘young pups’ will rise to the challenge and fill potential voids in the rotation and bullpen by 2026. The Yankees also have a strategy focused at easing the load on key players like Bellinger in the coming season.

At the center of that challenge sits the Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise that has reshaped its roster with high-impact signings and championship continuity. With Dodgers payroll towering and recent additions stacking the lineup, baseball observers have increasingly framed Los Angeles as the team to beat.

In a recent conversation with NJ.com’s Bob Klapisch, Cashman offered an update on the Yankees’ mindset, emphasizing that New York’s goals are both traditional and aspirational — winning the division and ultimately, finding ways to beat any opponent on the field.

What is the Yankees’ plan to bridge the gap with the Dodgers?

“The goal is to find a way,” Cashman said when asked if the current Yankees roster could overcome a powerhouse like Los Angeles. “First, we have to win the East. Then we have to win the pennant, neither of which happened last year. That’s our only focus.”

Does Los Angeles’ spending give it an edge?

When pressed on the Dodgers’ enormous luxury tax payroll — highlighted by premium free-agent signings this offseason — Cashman reminded listeners that spending is just one part of the equation. “They’re playing by the rules,” he said. “So we just have to find a way to beat them on the field.”

Looking back on 2025, the Yankees never again faced the Dodgers after dropping the World Series, instead losing ground to AL rivals like the Blue Jays and Red Sox. As the calendar turns toward 2026, Cashman’s comments suggest that New York’s front office is intent on both incremental improvement and larger competitive ambitions.

In the weeks ahead, spring training and early season matchups will serve as the first barometer of how far Cashman’s plan has brought the Yankees toward bridging the gap with the Dodgers and other MLB contenders.

When questioned about the current roster, Cashman expressed satisfaction with the team’s composition but sent an intriguing message to the fans: “Stay tuned for more additions to the roster.” He also signaled confidence in some prospects stepping up to enhance the team, a sentiment shared by Gary Phillips of NYND.

Having made significant moves in the offseason market, including the acquisition of Bo Bichette, the Yankees remain vigilant in exploring further roster enhancements. Meanwhile, several players are eager to don the Yankees pinstripes.

As the WBC approaches, players like Cody Bellinger have announced their participation with Team USA for the tournament. With spring training in full swing, the anticipation is palpable regarding the potential roster emerging from these matchups.

Cashman’s insights on the Yankees’ roster this season

Reflecting on the transition from last season to the upcoming one, Yankees GM shared his insights on the roster and the strategies needed to mold a championship-caliber team amid mounting pressure.

“I disagree it’s the same team running it back. I’ve been openly willing to challenge anybody that we don’t have a championship-caliber roster,” Cashman stated during an SNY interview.

He was emphatic in asserting the changes from last year’s lineup. “It’s not the same roster. We have players returning from IL. We added weapons at the deadline. We have young talents climbing the ranks. We’ve secured big arms, one from Colorado and another from the Marlins,” Cashman noted.

General manager Brian Cashman recently addressed the team’s cautious approach, offering insight into the challenges of the current market. “There’s not a lot of inventory that I’m interested in coming off the board yet,” Cashman said, via The New York Post, highlighting the difficulty of finding impactful free agents and trade targets.

Cashman further explained that much of the offseason activity has been preliminary. “It feels like there’s still a lot of information gathering and information sharing or preliminary negotiations that are taking place… rather than you’re in the red zone and you’re finishing stuff off,” he added. This honest appraisal underscores why the Yankees’ offseason has appeared slow compared to competitors.

Why are fans frustrated with the Yankees’ offseason?

Despite a few re-signings, critics argue that the team’s pace is frustrating, especially given other franchises making bold moves. Thomas Carannante of Yanks Go Yard noted that the Yankees’ slow action contrasts sharply with small-market teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates, who have already bolstered their roster.

Could the Yankees enter 2026 without key additions?

With payroll reportedly capped under $300 million, the Yankees may face limitations on major signings like Bellinger. Manager Aaron Boone added that another starting pitcher would be “nice” but not critical, signaling cautious optimism rather than urgency.

Needless to say, the rumor coming out of Yankee Stadium made waves all over MLB. Coming off a 2025 season in which Chisholm posted a .242 batting average, 31 home runs (HR), 80 runs batted in (RBI), and a .813 On-base plus slugging (OPS), not many expected New York would even consider parting ways with the 27-year-old All-Star.

Still, fans in the Bronx have now learned the Yankees are weighing a Chisholm Jr. trade. It didn’t take long before general manager Cashman addressed the media with a clear statement.

“[Chisholm is] somebody who I think is currently part of the solution,” Cashman stated, via insider Bryan Hoch on X. “Someone that’s made us better by getting him two deadlines ago and giving us athleticism. He’s been a good get. We will be open-minded. But again, my default is these are all individually good players. We acquired them for a reason.”

Cashman turned heads

Although Cashman had lots of praise for the second baseman, fans couldn’t look past the ‘open mind’ quote. It’s not entirely surprising, as New York has long based its idiosyncrasy on having no player placed above the iconic ‘NY’ logo. However, it’s still an eyebrow-raising comment—one Cashman casually slid into the middle of his statement.

Now, Chisholm may have to sleep with one eye open. If he had made plans to make a long-term purchase in New York, he may be wise to think it through or postpone it until he gets a better understanding on where the Pinstripers stand about his future with the team.

Chisholm’s contract situation

After earning $5.85 million during the 2025 MLB season, Chisholm Jr. is up for a significant pay raise through arbitration next year. According to The Nassau Guardian, the 27-year-old star is projected to make at least $11 million in 2026.

Though he is arbitration-eligible next season, Chisholm Jr. has shown a strong desire to sign a long-term contract—preferably without waving goodbye to the Pinstripes outfit. However, the Yankees are weighing all their options, and that includes potentially trading the Bahamian star. It’s still early, so all possibilities remain on the table for Cashman and the Bronx Bombers.

As for Chisholm Jr.’s market, just hours after New York gave the green light on receiving calls for him, the loud interest around him served as a reminder of the great second baseman the Yankees currently employ.

In conversations with reporters, Cashman acknowledged that progress has been slower than the Yankees would prefer. While the team remains active across multiple fronts, negotiations have been met with resistance from other front offices, a sign of how competitive and guarded this market has become.

Despite that friction, Cashman emphasized that the Yankees are not stepping back from their pursuit of roster improvements. Several conversations remain ongoing, and the front office believes that dialogue could eventually pave a path toward meaningful movement.

Cashman’s candid take on ongoing trade talks

Cashman offered a straightforward evaluation of where things stand, outlining the current dynamics with unusual transparency. “We’re just staying engaged, trying to match up with some things. But it’s been tough so far,” he said, according to Bryan Hoch on X.

He also added, “Don’t like the asks coming our way, and I guess the opposing teams don’t like what I’m trying to pull from them on the trade stuff. We do have some conversations that possibly could lead somewhere.”

Cashman comments on slow market

As the offseason unfolds, Yankees general manager Cashman has acknowledged the slow pace of the free-agent market, describing it as moving at “glacial speed.” “We have a strong team. The job is to make it better and make it stronger. (Saying) it and doing it are two different things. We’re trying to pull that off, and it takes time. There’s a lot of time on the board still, and there’s a lot of inventory still there, so there’s a lot of possibilities in play.” He said.

During an interview with YES Network, Cashman disclosed a significant development: the Yankees have lost both Luke Weaver and Devin Williams for the 2026 season. “As we move into the 2026 MLB season, we have lost Devin [Williams] and [Luke] Weaver,” Cashman stated candidly.

This revelation sparked anxiety among fans, particularly those hoping Weaver would remain a Yankee despite his impending free agency in 2026. It left the fanbase uncertain about the right-handed pitcher’s prospects and the organization’s plans.

Fan reactions on social media reflect their surprise and concern, with comments like, “I figured we were out on Bellinger and Imai, but I didn’t think we were out on Weaver until tonight,” and “Means he’s not counting on resigning him.” Such feedback underscores the unexpected nature of Cashman’s announcement.

Cashman’s comments on Gerrit Cole’s return

Gerrit Cole, a key player the Yankees sorely missed last season, is anticipated to return in 2026. At 35, the relief pitcher is considered vital to the team’s success, but Cashman remains vague about his exact comeback.

“Maybe in June, next year. But listen, he is going to come back when he is absolutely ready, as we don’t want him to get injured again,” Cashman emphasized, highlighting the cautious approach toward Cole’s re-entry to the roster.

Amidst these uncertainties, the Yankees are gearing up for the upcoming season with hopes of strategic enhancements to their lineup for 2026. Their objective remains clear: to rebound strongly during the regular season and present a formidable challenge to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the reigning champions.

This week, during the Winter’s General Manager meeting, Cashman shared a candid and unexpected statement with YES Network regarding his role with the Yankees. “I’ve had the opportunity to learn from the greatest GMs in MLB history. Their wisdom was invaluable to me, shaping my career, but I’ve never aspired to be the Yankees GM,” Cashman confessed.

“It’s too much pressure; it’s an incredibly demanding environment. The GMs before me seldom lasted more than a year or two at most, making it a difficult landscape… I recall thinking at that time that climbing the ladder seemed futile… and in retrospect, I declared I would never want to take on that role,“ Cashman added.

Despite his earlier reservations, Cashman has become one of the longest-serving General Managers with the same team in MLB. His name is now synonymous with the Yankees, even in the challenging context of leading a major league baseball team, as he once described.

Cashman’s tenure with the Yankees

Since 1998, Cashman has been at the helm of a franchise that demands greatness, perhaps more so than many others, given its storied history and passionate fanbase. Over these 28 years, Cashman has achieved significant milestones for the organization, particularly during the early phases of his tenure.

Cashman’s accomplishments include securing four World Series titles (1998, 1999, 2000, 2009), claiming the American League championship seven times, and reaching the postseason in 21 of his 28 seasons as GM. His stewardship has contributed to maintaining a winning percentage that ranks among the highest in MLB history since 1950, firmly establishing his legacy within the Yankees organization.

Despite these impressive achievements, the Yankees’ fanbase continues to expect more, as the team has experienced a long drought without a championship. Given Cashman’s history of delivering titles, the pressure and scrutiny from supporters are likely to intensify if the Yankees do not secure another title soon.