Recent DFA haunting Yankees proves they made big mistake

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Recent DFA haunting Yankees proves they made big mistake

Originally posted on MLB on ClutchPoints
By Josh Davis, ClutchPoints | Last updated May 28, 2026 5:16 PM ET

The New York Yankees are facing fresh scrutiny over their decision to designate veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk for assignment on April 29. Roughly one month after designating veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk for assignment, the move is drawing renewed attention as his production with the Chicago White Sox continues to grow.

The Yankees moved on from Grichuk on April 29 after just 16 games, opting instead to promote top pitching prospect Elmer Rodriguez. The decision came despite the veteran receiving limited opportunities early in the season and at a time when the lineup was still searching for consistency.

Since joining the White Sox on May 4, Grichuk has emerged as a steady contributor. He has delivered timely offense while helping stabilize a lineup dealing with injuries and uneven production. His impact was evident again Thursday during the White Sox’s matchup against the Minnesota Twins.

Major League Baseball shared the moment on X, formerly Twitter, after Grichuk broke the game open with a bases-clearing double.

“Randal Grichuk clears the bases!

@WhiteSox take a commanding lead ”

Randal Grichuk clears the bases!@WhiteSox take a commanding lead pic.twitter.com/UK1iT0HubG

— MLB (@MLB) May 28, 2026

The hit gave the White Sox an early 5-0 advantage in just the bottom of the third inning at Guaranteed Rate Field while adding on to his growing list of contributions since the move. Each performance continues to raise questions about the Yankees’ decision to part ways with a veteran bat who has quickly found a rhythm elsewhere.

After just 16 games with the club, the Yankees cut Grichuk to promote top pitching prospect Elmer Rodriguez. Grichuk cleared waivers and signed with the White Sox on May 4.

Decisions involving designated players for assignment are often revisited when outcomes shift, and this case is no different. With the Yankees still searching for consistent production in parts of their lineup, Grichuk’s resurgence with the White Sox continues to prompt reflection on how quickly the organization chose to move on.

This article first appeared on MLB on ClutchPoints and was syndicated with permission.

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