Kansas City Royals Could Target Former Yankees Outfielder in MLB Free Agency

The Kansas City Royals have a clear hole in the outfield heading into the offseason, and Trent Grisham is a free agent who fits the need. Grisham is coming off three seasons in New York with the Yankees and is set to test the open market for the second time.

The Royals finished 2026 with combined production at left field and center field that ranked among the worst in the American League. Right field is locked up with Jac Caglianone, who had a breakout season and gives the lineup a legitimate threat. But the spots around him need upgrades, and Grisham would address the most pressing one.

The 29-year-old outfielder spent the last three seasons in New York. After the Yankees acquired him alongside Juan Soto from San Diego in December 2023, he carved out a starting role in center.

His 2025 campaign was the best of his career by a wide margin. He hit .235 with 34 home runs, 74 RBIs and an .812 OPS in 143 games. The Yankees extended him a qualifying offer worth $22 million, and he accepted it to return for 2026.

His numbers dipped this past season to .211 with 18 home runs and 59 RBIs in 121 games, meaning the Royals could potentially get him at a discount.

What makes Grisham appealing for Kansas City goes beyond the bat. He is a two-time Gold Glove winner who can handle all three outfield positions. His defensive value is established, not a projection. He also brings left-handed power to a Royals lineup that could use another lefty. 

Grisham debuted with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2019. Then, the San Diego Padres acquired him just one season later. He won Gold Gloves in 2020 and 2022 in San Diego before getting dealt to New York.

The qualifying offer he accepted last winter carried a $22 million value, which gives some indication of how the market may set. A multi-year deal with a lower annual average would likely attract Grisham, and Kansas City could offer the length he needs while landing an outfielder capable of playing premium defense and contributing in the middle of the order.

With Caglianone in right field and the Royals wanting to build around their young core, adding an experienced, versatile outfielder makes sense. Grisham is also still just 29 years old and there is a chance he unlocks something playing every day in a hitter-friendly ballpark.