Now the Yankees are in a losing streak, now the critics can ramble on about the situation of the team. There will be talk of how Aaron Boone has to handle a crisis once again, of how some areas suddenly went cold, or of how players start to voice their concerns, like Jazz Chisholm. They just they went 0-3 in a series against Toronto and the Bahamian couldn’t contain his emotions in the second loss yesterday.
Chisholm delivered a candid message to manager Aaron Boone regarding the switch to third base he’s submitted to the last month. Since returning from IL, the Yankees player hasn’t been the choice for his natural position in Boone’s lineups. The Bahamian simply voiced his identity as a natural second baseman, yet the conversation sparked major headlines in MLB circles.
Jazz’s fielding struggles fielding struggles
Chisholm’s officious move to third base hasn’t gone smoothly. His .949 fielding percentage, -4 outs above average, and meager 64% success rate project a concerning trend. During the July 1st matchup against Toronto, he misplayed a slow tapper and produced an errant throw, inginitng a late inning rally for the Blue Jays that turned the Yankees’ lead into a 12-5 drubbing.
Despite batting success, ranking second in OPS (.833) behind AL VMP frontrunner Aaron Judge, defensive woes at the third bag have become too glaring to ignore. Chisholm’s discomfort was evident when he reminded reporters, “everyone knows I’m a second baseman”.
Chisholm shows discomfort on position switch
The change came after D.J. Lemahieu cemented his role at second, and the team touted Chisholm’s arm as a fit for third, but the Bahamian didn’t sugarcoat the move. “I know I’m better at second base…but…I still have to play third. I just have to deal with it”, he voiced in the locker room. Despite his displeasure, he emphasized team-first professionalism, like he has since arriving to the Yankees.
Aaron Boone defended the decision attributing recent errors to Jazz’s inexperience on artificial turf. The New York manager said unfamiliar hops at Rogers Centre impacted his timing and rythm. Boone sure showed support for his player, plus it’s been said that the team may be looking for third base reinforcements with the trade deadline coming. A move like this could allow Chisholm to revert to his natural second baseman role, while solidifying the hot corner.
What’s next for Chisholm and the Yankees?
Will Chisholm stay at third base, embracing the challenge? Or will the Yankees acquire a veteran third baseman to realign roles? How will Boone manage locker room cohesion during this logistical shift. Lots of questions to be answered.One thing is clear: the Yankees’ defensive strategy and Boone’s adaptability will be under close scrutiny.
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