Trent Grisham, an outfielder currently with the New York Yankees, has carved out a reputation as a defense-first player with flashes of offensive potential. While his batting average might not always reflect it, Grisham’s Gold Glove-caliber fielding and base-running acumen have made him a valuable asset to any team.
Grisham’s journey to the majors began when he was drafted 15th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2015 MLB draft. He quickly rose through the Brewers’ minor league system, showcasing his athleticism and developing his skills at the plate. He made his major league debut in 2019 with Milwaukee, offering glimpses of the player he could become.
However, his time in Milwaukee was relatively short-lived. Before the 2020 season, Grisham was traded to the San Diego Padres in a blockbuster deal that sent Luis Urias and Eric Lauer to the Brewers. This move proved to be a turning point for Grisham, as he immediately solidified himself as the Padres’ starting center fielder.
His first season with the Padres was arguably his best offensively. In the shortened 2020 season, Grisham hit .251 with 10 home runs, 26 RBIs, and a .808 OPS. More importantly, his defensive excellence earned him his first Gold Glove award, cementing his status as one of the premier defensive outfielders in baseball. His range, instincts, and ability to read the ball off the bat made him a consistent highlight reel on defense.
While his offensive production dipped slightly in subsequent seasons, Grisham remained a key contributor to the Padres. He displayed good plate discipline, drawing walks and getting on base at a reasonable rate. He also added value on the basepaths with his speed and willingness to take extra bases. Despite some struggles at the plate, the Padres valued his overall contributions, particularly his elite defense and clubhouse presence.
In December 2023, Grisham was traded to the New York Yankees as part of a package deal that sent Juan Soto to the Yankees. This trade offered Grisham a fresh start in a new environment. While he likely won’t be a regular starter in New York, he provides valuable depth and versatility to the Yankees’ outfield. His defensive prowess is especially valuable in the spacious Yankee Stadium outfield.
Looking ahead, Grisham’s role with the Yankees will likely be that of a platoon player and defensive replacement. He has the potential to provide a spark offensively, but his primary value remains his Gold Glove-caliber defense. If he can improve his consistency at the plate, he could become an even more valuable asset to the Yankees. Regardless, Trent Grisham has already established himself as a talented player in MLB, known for his exceptional fielding skills and his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. He’s a player who consistently strives to improve, and his dedication to the game is evident in his performance on the field.