
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.
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, whoâs slashing .145/.303/.290/.593. WIth that in mind, Sports Illustratedâs Patrick McAvoy predicts the Yanks could find a potential replacement, in Washington Nationals All-Star James Wood.
âIf 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, , ,â McAvoy wrote.
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.
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.
Besides the Yankees, potential landing spots for James Wood include the San Diego Padres and Houston Astros, depending on the Nationals' performance this season.


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So far this season, Wood is slashing .256/.385/.570/.954 with six doubles, seven home runs, 18 RBI, and four stolen bases in 21 games. He would slot in at left field, and push Cody Bellinger to center, taking Grishamâs place.
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The best part about him other than his talent is his age, and because of it, his price. He still has a year of pre-arbitration after this season, and then full arbitration before he hits free agency.
With only a year left on Grishamâs contract, this seems like a perfect move to make. Theyâll have to give up some prospects and young players, but this could be New Yorkâs chance to level up their roster.
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