Who Should Yankees Lock Up Long-Term: Chisholm or Bednar?

The following piece digs into how the New York Yankees look set to keep most of their 2025 roster intact for 2026. That’s possible thanks to a core group mostly locked into long-term deals.

We’ll look at which players might hit free agency after 2026, how the team juggles its payroll, and where the toughest contract calls might show up—on the mound and in the lineup.

Core Under Control: The Path to 2026

The Yankees’ 2026 outlook really hinges on two things. First, the core is locked up on long-term deals or in pre-arbitration, and second, they’re not expecting big losses from the rotation.

The lineup’s shaping up the same way. Veteran sluggers have durable contracts, while a group of young players is ready to contribute for years.

This mix gives the Yankees a strong foundation for 2026. If the front office keeps balancing development with cost-control, there’s a real shot at staying competitive for a while.

Long-Term Deals and Arbitration Shields the Rotation

Most of the pitching staff signed long-term or sits in arbitration, so the Yankees don’t face many looming departures. That’s huge—steady pitching keeps the roster from churning and losing rhythm.

Sure, a few relievers and veterans might hit the market after 2026. Still, the core of the mound group isn’t going anywhere.

The Yankees usually hesitate to spend big on relievers. But if someone like David Bednar keeps dominating late innings through 2025 and 2026, the front office might need to rethink how it budgets for the bullpen.

The market for top relievers keeps changing. Maybe it’s time to get more flexible and performance-driven, instead of sticking to old habits.

Key Components of the 2026 Lineup

The 2026 lineup feels like a blend of proven power and upside. Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Giancarlo Stanton anchor things, while young hitters are still years from free agency.

That mix means star power up top and cost-controlled growth in the rest of the order. It’s a good spot to be in.

The Yankees want players who can help in lots of ways—on-base skills, power, defense. Their scouting and minor-league pipeline will matter more than ever as they look to keep the window open.

The Big Three: Judge, Bellinger, Stanton

Aaron Judge brings that rare mix of power and leadership, anchoring the lineup with durability. Cody Bellinger chips in elite defense and a proven bat, giving balance and postseason experience.

Giancarlo Stanton adds veteran know-how and playoff grit. He shows how the club can blend experience with youth for real staying power.

All three should stick around through 2026, either on long-term deals or early in their contracts. The trick is building around them in a way that keeps value high and payroll manageable.

Younger Core Rising: Volpe, Wells, Rice

Anthony Volpe leads the next wave of talent. Austin Wells and Ben Rice offer depth and upside behind the stars.

These guys are still years from free agency, making them key to the Yankees’ future. How they develop will shape whether the team needs to chase big outside names or can rely on internal growth.

If Volpe keeps maturing, Wells develops behind the plate, and Rice’s bat comes along, the lineup could become a hybrid machine—veteran power up top, youthful production throughout.

Free-Agency Watch List for 2026-27

A few names could hit free agency after 2026, forcing the Yankees to choose between keeping their core and bringing in new faces. The spotlight lands on Trent Grisham, David Bednar, and Jazz Chisholm Jr.—each with their own strengths.

It’s not just about talent. Timing, price, and the ever-shifting economics of contracts all play a part as the league keeps evolving.

Grisham, Bednar, and Chisholm Jr.: What to Expect

Trent Grisham had a breakout 2025, but was it a fluke or a new normal? If he fits the next championship window, he might be the easiest to re-sign.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. stands out for his defense, power, and speed, but he’ll probably command the biggest contract. David Bednar became the go-to closer in 2025, but the Yankees rarely hand out top reliever money. If Bednar keeps dominating, maybe they’ll finally break that pattern and pay up for a real closer.

Which player would you want the Yankees to keep long-term—Grisham, Bednar, or Chisholm? Fans have a real say here, and the team’s listening as it shapes its 2026-27 plans.

Fan Engagement and Extra Features

The roster talk never really stops, but the team keeps fans hooked with some fun features on their site. They’re mixing nostalgia and a bit of optimism for what’s ahead.

The Yankees Birthday series is still rolling, this time shining a light on Fritz Peterson. Every week, there’s a social-media roundup, pulling in the latest news and whatever fans are buzzing about.

• Which player should the Yankees keep around for the long haul? Trent Grisham, David Bednar, or maybe Jazz Chisholm Jr.?
• How should the bullpen get valued? Stick with the usual reliever budget, or maybe it’s finally time to spend up for those late-inning arms?
• What kind of role will Volpe have in 2026? Everyday shortstop, clutch hitter, or a blend of defense and offense?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Which player do the Yankees need to lock up long-term?