Jazz Chisholm Jr., one of the most charismatic figures in the New York Yankees, was once again in the spotlight during his team’s 10-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals. But this time, it was not his performance that caught the eye, but a direct threat he made against a rival, caught by the stadium cameras.
The incident occurred during a play in which Chisholm attempted to steal third base. Royals catcher Freddy Fermin threw to the corner, where infielder Maikel Garcia tried to apply the tag. Chisholm slid headfirst and beat the attempt, but in the process, Garcia’s glove impacted his helmet, which flew off. In the friction, the Yankees player collided with Garcia’s shin guard, causing his discomfort.
Chisholm, quite upset with what happened, approached Yankees third base coach Luis Rojas and uttered a phrase that set social media on fire.
“I’m going to tell you one more time… if you tag me like that again, I’m going to break your f***ing face.”
The moment was broadcast live and then replayed on multiple platforms, creating a divide among fans. While some praised Chisholm’s “passion,” others accused him of unsportsmanlike and unnecessary conduct. Criticism mounted when it was confirmed that the play was within the rules and did not represent an infringement by Garcia.
A history that condemns him
The incident with the Royals is not the first in the short term. Just a few days earlier, Chisholm had generated controversy before a game against the Boston Red Sox. In a post on his X account he wrote: “I think there should be more trash talk in baseball! Does anyone agree? Anyway, free smoke at 7.”
That message was interpreted as a direct response to Boston pitcher Hunter Dobbins, who had publicly stated that he would rather retire than play for the Yankees. Chisholm then promised to “bring the smoke,” although in that game he did not have a significant impact.
Divided opinions
Chisholm’s style has generated both followers and detractors. For some, it’s just a competitive attitude that generates noise because it’s not the usual in baseball. For others, his words cross boundaries that put the professional image of the sport at risk.
There is no doubt that this type of attitude and comments could open a debate in MLB and consider sanctions for those who cross the line. The future will tell how this issue continues, but Chisholm is far from changing.
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