Overview
- Hal Steinbrenner disputed assumptions that the Yankees automatically turn a profit, highlighting a recurring $100 million payment to New York City and other major expenses.
- Cot’s Baseball Contracts projects a roughly $278.1 million 2026 CBT payroll, which ESPN notes would carry an estimated $18.7 million tax at current levels.
- Roster moves to date include Trent Grisham accepting a $22.025 million qualifying offer, a one-year $2.5 million deal for Ryan Yarbrough, and five bullpen non-tenders including Mark Leiter Jr. and Ian Hamilton.
- Steinbrenner said the club still needs another outfielder and bullpen help, with a Cody Bellinger reunion reported as a priority that would likely push payroll higher.
- He defended manager Aaron Boone after the ALDS loss to Toronto and said he would consider a salary cap only if paired with a meaningful floor, as fan criticism of his comments continued in coverage.