The New York Yankees have slipped in the American League East standings, dropping from first place to the final Wild Card position with the Cleveland Guardians close behind. With a 61–55 record and just two months left in the season, the team is seeking ways to regain momentum, particularly as Jazz Chisholm Jr. struggles at the plate.

Lineup Changes Respond to Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s Recent Performance Decline

Since the All-Star break, the Yankees have lost 12 of 20 games, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. has been a key factor in their offensive woes. The 27-year-old second baseman, who joined the Yankees in last year’s trade deadline after five seasons with the Miami Marlins, is batting just .197 with 15 hits and two home runs in 20 games during the second half. Due to this slump, New York chose to bench Chisholm ahead of their Saturday game against the Houston Astros, with Framber Valdez starting for Houston.

In Chisholm’s place, the Yankees inserted newly acquired right-handed speedster Jose Caballero at second base. Caballero will bat eighth in the lineup, taking advantage of a platoon matchup against the left-handed Valdez to provide a needed spark for New York’s offense in The Bronx.

Jose Caballero Offers Speed and Strategic Advantage Against Left-Handed Pitching

While Chisholm’s absence may be felt in the lineup, Caballero’s strengths could help offset the loss. Caballero has been more effective against left-handed pitchers this season, posting a .235 batting average with a .723 OPS, matching Chisholm’s .235 average but surpassing his .649 OPS in this area. Additionally, Caballero has stolen 35 bases compared to Chisholm’s 14, making him a threat on the basepaths and an asset for generating scoring opportunities.

Despite Chisholm’s slump, he remains the more productive overall player, holding a .237 batting average with 19 home runs and a .790 OPS over 85 games this season. Still, by giving Chisholm rest days against tough left-handed pitching, the Yankees aim to preserve his form while maintaining offensive pressure with Caballero’s speed and platoon advantage.

This strategic adjustment highlights New York’s focus on balancing player health and matchup advantages as they continue to fight for position in a competitive AL East division.