The Yankees executed a clever strategy by signing Jazz Chisholm to a one-year, $5.85 million deal, bypassing arbitration and staying significantly below his estimated $6.9 million wage. Saving more than $1 million for a player with Chisholm’s potential is a success, particularly given the influence he demonstrated in only half a season in the Bronx last year.
Chisholm’s Influence in Pinstripes
Chisholm immediately made an impact upon joining the Yankees in 2024, demonstrating the kind of dynamic skills that establish him as one of baseball’s most thrilling young stars.
In 46 games in pinstripes, he recorded a slash line of .273/.325/.500, hitting 11 home runs, driving in 23 RBIs, and successfully stealing an impressive 18 bases. During that period, his 132 wRC+ placed him significantly above the league average offensively, providing a crucial lift for a Yankees lineup that occasionally had issues with consistency. A complete season of Chisholm performing at this level would be an ideal situation for New York, particularly at this cost.
Defensive Flexibility with an Ideal Zone
Defensively, Chisholm offers flexibility in the infield, able to play both second base and third base. Nonetheless, second base is the position where he excels, using his agility and fast reflexes to execute plays that most infielders wouldn’t even consider. His defensive abilities are most effectively utilized at second base, where his athleticism and instincts provide an extra level of dependability to the Yankees’ infield.
This change also provides New York the ability to consider other possibilities for third base, whether through internal competition or a trade during the season.
A Star in Development with Cost Control
Chisholm represents more than merely a temporary fix. Having two additional years of team control before entering free agency in 2027, the Yankees possess an economical player capable of providing exceptional performance in all aspects of the game. At merely $5.85 million for 2025, Chisholm is a steal for a player possessing his mix of power, speed, and defensive flexibility.
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