Trent Grisham has emerged as a key contributor for the New York Yankees during the 2025 season, taking on the leadoff role and posting career-best numbers at the plate. Grisham, who was acquired in the trade that brought Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres two winters ago, has hit a personal-high 26 home runs this year after recording just nine last season.
The outfielder attributes his improved performance to mental preparation and consistency in his approach. “I think consistent at-bats help any player,” Grisham said. “I would put most of it to the mental work that I’ve put in.”
Grisham’s impact has been significant, with 18 of his 26 home runs either tying games or giving the Yankees a lead. He has also hit six leadoff homers, ranking fifth among Major League players this season.
Jazz Chisholm Jr., one of Grisham’s teammates, praised his discipline at the plate: “He’s been great, man. He’s been a spark plug, and really what we’ve needed all season. He doesn’t really chase. He’ll force you to throw in the strike zone before he swings at a ball out of the zone, most of the time. For me, that’s what you need out of a leadoff guy, especially when you’ve got some pop like he does.”
Since August 9th, Grisham has batted .284/.385/.552. This improvement comes after three consecutive seasons hitting below .200 and follows his recognition as a two-time Gold Glove Award winner.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted how development is not always straightforward for young players: “Everyone’s trajectory is not like this,” Boone said while tracing an imaginary line upward. “It’s a hard game. Hitting in the big leagues is hard. There’s countless examples of guys finding themselves, really figuring it out a little bit — especially offensively — as their career unfolds.”
Grisham currently holds a .248 batting average with 67 runs scored and 51 RBIs across 2.6 fWAR this season after re-signing with New York for $5 million last offseason.
Looking ahead, Grisham could be considered for a qualifying offer or multi-year contract extension by the Yankees amid potential changes to their outfield lineup.
Carlos Rodón commented on Grisham’s contributions: “Trent’s been unbelievable this year,” Rodón said. “He’s been remarkable.”
