Yankees Secure Arbitration Deals as Chisholm Jr. Gets $10.2M

The New York Yankees used MLB’s arbitration deadline to close out a major offseason checkpoint, ensuring all eligible players agreed to terms for 2026. The headline development centers on Jazz Chisholm Jr., who secured the highest figure among the group and enters his final year before potential free agency. His situation reflects not only his production in New York but also the broader uncertainty surrounding his long-term fit, as discussions about extensions and potential trade interest continue around the league.

Chisholm Nets Top Payday in Final Arbitration Year

Chisholm reached a one-year, $10.2 million agreement with the Yankees, marking his largest salary to date and his last season under team control. The 27-year-old posted a 30-home run, 30-stolen base campaign while producing above-average offensive metrics, solidifying his value in a strong Yankees lineup. He transitioned to playing second base after previously handling third, and his 130-plus game availability each of the last two seasons helped silence questions about durability that followed him during his Miami tenure.

Chisholm mentioned late last year that he would be open to extension talks, though no meaningful progress has emerged. Rival teams have expressed interest, and while the Yankees have not signaled a willingness to move him, the lack of extension traction leaves the door open to speculation as he approaches free agency.

New York Wraps Up Arbitration Class Without Hearings

The Yankees avoided arbitration hearings for the second straight winter, finalizing agreements with David Bednar, Jake Bird, José Caballero, Camilo Doval, Luis Gil and Anthony Volpe. Bednar secured $9 million, Doval agreed to $6.1 million, Volpe settled at $3.475 million, Caballero landed at $2 million, Cruz agreed at $1.4 million and Gil signed for $2,162,500. The club has not faced an arbitration hearing since Mark Leiter Jr.’s case last year, reinforcing a front-office preference for settling figures before reaching the panel stage.

Roster Context and Offseason Implications

Chisholm’s contract does not eliminate the trade whispers that surfaced late in the season and early in the offseason, though the Yankees appear content carrying him into Opening Day. His power-speed blend, left-handed bat and strong fit at Yankee Stadium offer value that is difficult to replace, especially with the Yankees pursuing postseason ambitions. His career 4.2 bWAR season in 2025 and 42 home runs over 176 games in pinstripes highlight the type of upside New York might prioritize keeping.

Next Steps as Spring Approaches

With arbitration business completed, attention shifts toward the Yankees’ bigger offseason agenda. The club has been tied to free agents and pitching upgrades while Gerrit Cole rehabs, and the remaining weeks before spring training are viewed as critical for reinforcing the roster. Chisholm’s situation will remain a storyline until clarity arrives on either an extension, trade decision or his eventual path into free agency next winter.

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