Paul Goldschmidt Makes MLB Retirement Decision After 15 Seasons

However, as the 2026 MLB season approaches, Goldschmidt remains unsigned with Spring Training only weeks away. A return to the Yankees appears unlikely, as the organization is expected to hand first base duties to left-handed breakout slugger Ben Rice.

If Goldschmidt hopes to join a clear World Series contender, the number of realistic landing spots is limited, which has fueled speculation about whether he might consider retirement.

According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, that is not the direction Goldschmidt intends to go. Despite a slow-moving free agency, he has continued preparing this offseason and plans to play in 2026.

Morosi notes that Goldschmidt’s value at this stage will likely come in a platoon role against left-handed pitching, an area where he remains highly productive.

He posted a .336 batting average, .411 on-base percentage and .981 OPS in 168 plate appearances against southpaws last season, numbers that still make him a weapon in the right situation.

Diamondbacks Emerge as the Best Landing Spot

One potential fit stands out above the rest, and it happens to be the place where Goldschmidt’s career first began.

The Diamondbacks have an opening at first base after trading Josh Naylor at last year’s deadline, and their current depth chart projects left-handed hitter Pavin Smith as the starter. Adding a right-handed veteran with Goldschmidt’s track record would be a beneficial low-risk addition.

It is also a natural landing spot for Goldschmidt. He spent eight seasons in Arizona, became a franchise superstar and established himself as one of the best hitters in the sport while wearing a Diamondbacks uniform.

Returning for one final season would not only fill a roster need for a team looking to stay competitive in the National League, but it would offer a fitting full-circle moment for a player nearing the end of a remarkable career.