Yankees make Paul Goldschmidt announcement in second season with the club

First baseman Paul Goldschmidt has been playing in MLB for a long time now. 2026 marks his 16th major league season, spent with three separate teams. Across his career, the first baseman has suited up for the Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Cardinals and now the New York Yankees. He is 38 years old, has an MVP, four gold gloves, five silver sluggers and seven All-Star appearances. Goldschmidt’s career is as decorated as they come, and his Hall of Fame candidacy has some real traction. Before New York’s game against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday, he was honored as the Yankees’ nomination for the 2026 MLBPAA Heart and Hustle Award winner. What the award means MLBPAA (Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association) gives out an award every year to one specific player who “”best embodies the values, spirits and traditions of baseball.” All 30 teams select a player who they think best embodies this, and then the MLBPAA votes on which one player they believe should win the award. Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals, the most recent winner, has won in back-to-back years. The usual voting cycle takes place near the conclusion of the regular season and through the postseason. The award will be presented to the winner in mid or late November. There has been no official date given yet, though 2025’s was presented Nov. 20. MORE: Tigers suffer another loss after Riley Greene’s injury Goldschmidt’s 2026 outlook Jun 16, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (48) hits a two run home run against the Chicago White Sox during the fourth inning at Yankee Stadium. John Jones-Imagn Images As one of the Yankees’ veteran leaders, the first baseman has remained a solid part of their lineup. In 87 games, he is slashing .247/.308/.450 (.758 OPS) with 16 home runs and 44 RBIs. Goldschmidt hits especially well with left-handers on the mound, posting a .992 OPS in 149 plate appearances against them this year. He has 16 extra-base hits to go along with 18 RBIs. However, even with the great numbers, the 38-year-old’s playing time may be limited from here on out. The Yankees just traded for Luis García Jr., a platoon bat for right-handed pitchers. This has moved Ben Rice to the designated hitter role for the time being. The looming return of slugger Giancarlo Stanton would put Rice back at first, presumably against left-handers. This limits Goldschmidt’s chances. He has not yet revealed his plans for 2027 and beyond, but retirement is an option. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —