Trent Grisham’s Tumultuous Season: From Star to Struggler

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Trent Grisham, the 28-year-old outfielder for the New York Yankees, has faced a challenging 2025 season after an explosive start. Following his acquisition from the San Diego Padres in a major trade last December, Grisham initially thrived as he filled in for injured teammates.

In April, Grisham set the stage for a potential breakout with a scorching batting average of .423 and an impressive OPS of 1.308. However, after a strong start, he soon began to struggle, with his performance declining sharply.

Grisham’s batting average plummeted to .186 over the past month. His batting stats reflect a stark contrast from earlier in the season, with a significant increase in ground-ball rate from 27.8% to 45.5%. While he showcased potential to be an impactful player, his recent struggles have forced the Yankees to reconsider his position in the lineup.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed concern regarding the team’s lineup flexibility. With Giancarlo Stanton returning from injury, and Grisham’s current performance, Boone’s challenge lies in effectively balancing the roster. ‘We know there are better options to fill those roles,’ Boone commented on Grisham’s inconsistent play.

The Yankees have bolstered their lineup with outstanding players like Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger, applying additional pressure on Grisham. The team continues to evaluate how to slot players effectively in the wake of increased competition within the roster.

Despite his decline, Grisham remains a vital defensive player for the Yankees, known for making spectacular catches in the outfield. That talent, coupled with his ability to hit left-handed pitching, still provides value when given opportunities.

As Grisham’s season unfolds, the Yankees face key decisions on managing their outfield depth while balancing the team’s offensive needs. The anticipation to see how the roster adjusts continues to loom as the season progresses.