Yankees predicted to be top landing spot for 23-year-old .954 OPS All-Star, would replace Trent Grisham in lineup

TL;DR

The New York Yankees are predicted to be the top landing spot for 23-year-old All-Star James Wood, who has a .954 OPS. He could replace struggling outfielder Trent Grisham in the lineup.

Key points

Yankees have a record of 12-9 in 2026.
Trent Grisham is struggling with a .145 batting average.
James Wood is a 23-year-old All-Star with a .954 OPS.
Wood hit 31 home runs in 2025 and has five in 2026.
Potential trade partners for Wood include the Yankees, Padres, and Astros.

New York YankeesWashington NationalsJames WoodTrent Grisham

Yankees predicted to be top landing spot for 23-year-old .954 OPS All-Star, would replace Trent Grisham in lineup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees are off to a good start in 2026, with a record of 12-9 and tied for first in the AL East. That being said, a few of their bats are still ice cold, and addressing that early on in the season might be in their best interest.

One of those bats is Trent Grisham, who’s slashing .145/.303/.290/.593. WIth that in mind, Sports Illustrated’s Patrick McAvoy predicts the Yanks could find a potential replacement, in Washington Nationals All-Star James Wood.

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“If the Washington Nationals want to supercharge their rebuild, flipping the 23-year-old may be their best bet. He had 31 homers in 2025 and was an All-Star for the first time throughout his young career in just his second season. In 2026, he already has five homers in 17 games played. The Nationals shouldn't trade Wood. But he will be someone to watch throughout the campaign if the Nationals flounder. Potential Landing Spots: New York Yankees, , ,” McAvoy wrote.

Q&A

Why are the Yankees interested in James Wood?

The Yankees are looking to replace Trent Grisham, who is struggling with a .145 batting average, and James Wood's strong performance makes him an attractive option.

What are James Wood's stats for the 2026 season?

In the 2026 season, James Wood has already hit five home runs in 17 games and had 31 homers in 2025, showcasing his offensive potential.

What teams are potential landing spots for James Wood?

Besides the Yankees, potential landing spots for James Wood include the San Diego Padres and Houston Astros, depending on the Nationals' performance this season.