Grichuk joins Yankees Opening Day roster, Cabrera sent to minors

Randal Grichuk arrived at the New York Yankees spring training camp only in late February, but he never felt anxious about it, believing he had a chance to compete for a spot on the Opening Day roster. That confidence paid off today, as manager Aaron Boone informed the 34-year-old veteran that he has made the team's Opening Day roster, adding an experienced hitter skilled against left-handed pitchers. Grichuk's major league contract is valued at $2.5 million.

Boone told reporters in Lakeland, Florida, that Oswaldo Cabrera will be sent down to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, allowing the infielder/outfielder more time to recover from the severe left ankle injury that ended his 2025 season.

This decision essentially finalizes the Yankees' bench composition: catcher J.C. Escarra, first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, infielder/outfielder Amed Rosario, and Grichuk will form the Opening Day bench.

Over 12 major league seasons, Grichuk has accumulated a slash line of .251/.298/.465 with 212 home runs. Last year, playing 113 games for the Diamondbacks and Royals, he posted an OPS of .674 with 9 home runs. He is expected to primarily face left-handed pitchers, with a career OPS of .819 against lefties compared to .733 against right-handers.