The New York Yankees, currently leading the American League with a 34-20 record, are progressing without infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has been sidelined since April 29 due to an oblique injury. The team’s prospects of securing the top seed may significantly improve if the 27-year-old athlete resumes play at the same level he demonstrated last season, making the Jazz Chisholm Jr. injury and Yankees comeback a focal point for fans and analysts alike.
Chisholm’s Early Impact and Versatility on the Field
After being acquired from the Miami Marlins at the trade deadline last year, Chisholm delivered solid offensive and defensive contributions, batting .273 with an on-base percentage of .325 and slugging .500, which included 11 home runs and 23 runs batted in over 46 games. Despite limited experience at third base, he provided the Yankees valuable flexibility, filling in with impressive athleticism at that position.
Earlier this season, Chisholm suited up primarily as a second baseman following Gleyber Torres’ departure. In his absence, the Yankees have leaned on Jorbit Vivas, Oswald Peraza, and veteran DJ LeMahieu to cover infield roles, maintaining competitive play while awaiting Chisholm’s return.
Upcoming Rehabilitation and Potential Shift in Defensive Role
An important milestone in Chisholm’s recovery is scheduled for Thursday, when he will participate in a Minor League rehab game with the Double-A Somerset Patriots, according to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch. This outing represents a significant step toward his full return to the Yankees’ lineup.
“Jazz Chisholm Jr. is scheduled to play in a Minor League rehab game tomorrow with [the Double-A] Somerset Patriots,”
Hoch reported on Wednesday.
“The Yankees are considering having him play third base when he returns.”
—Bryan Hoch, MLB.com
Chisholm, who was an All-Star in 2022, has struggled at the plate this season with a batting line of .181/.304/.410 across 30 games, including seven home runs and 17 RBIs. The possibility of transitioning back to third base could help maximize his strengths and provide the Yankees alignment flexibility.
Third Base Depth and Injury Challenges
Oswaldo Cabrera has taken on the bulk of third base duties this season with 105 at-bats but is currently sidelined by an ankle injury sustained on May 12. Manager Aaron Boone has indicated that Cabrera is unlikely to return this year, which adds urgency to the Yankees’ decision on where Chisholm will be positioned upon his comeback.
Background and Next Steps for Chisholm and the Yankees
Originally signed as an international free agent by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015, Chisholm was traded to the Miami Marlins in 2019. He appeared in just three postseason games with Miami but saw increased playoff action last year after joining New York, participating in 14 postseason contests. His return will be closely watched as the Yankees prepare to face the Los Angeles Angels at home and then travel to play the Los Angeles Dodgers.