The New York Yankees are grappling with a brewing storm in the AL East, and it’s not just their recent skid against the Toronto Blue Jays that’s raising eyebrows. After dropping two straight games to their division rivals by a combined score of 17-9, the Yankees find themselves in a precarious position, clinging to a slim one-game lead over Toronto and 1.5 games over the Tampa Bay Rays. While the team’s struggles on the field are concerning, it’s Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s candid comments about his role that have sparked a new conversation about the team’s lineup strategy.
Chisholm, the dynamic infielder acquired from the Miami Marlins last summer, has been a bright spot amid the Yankees’ recent woes. Over the two losses to Toronto, the 27-year-old went 1-for-6, launching a two-run homer, scoring twice, and drawing a pair of walks. His performance in June was nothing short of electric, as he slashed an impressive .318/.378/.614 with seven home runs and 19 RBI. This marked a stark contrast to his April struggles, where he posted a .151/.279/.312 line with four homers and 11 RBI before an oblique strain sidelined him for the entire month of May.
Despite his offensive contributions, Chisholm’s defensive role has become a point of contention. A natural second baseman, he’s been thrust into the unfamiliar territory of third base by the Yankees, a position he had never played before joining the team. On Tuesday, Chisholm didn’t hold back when addressing the positional switch, as reported by The Athletic’s Chris Kirschner.
“Everybody knows I’m a second baseman. Of course, I want to play second base, but whatever it takes to help the team win,” Chisholm said. “If that’s what the team chooses, that’s what I gotta do. I don’t write the lineups. You feel me?”
He continued, “I’m playing every day, so it’s hard to be upset. Yes, I know I’m a second baseman. Yes, I know I’m better at second base, but at the end of the day, I still have to play third. I just have to deal with it.”
Jazz Chisholm Jr. told me that “everyone knows I’m a second baseman.”
Jazz said he exclusively played at second this offseason and was told that was where he’d be.
So why is he playing third base? More below ⬇️https://t.co/mcnQP95J6Z
— Chris Kirschner (@ChrisKirschner) July 2, 2025
Chisholm’s comments come at a pivotal moment for the Yankees, who are navigating a tight division race. His frustration is understandable—his elite athleticism and instincts shine brightest at second base, where he feels most comfortable. Yet, the Yankees have leaned on his versatility, slotting him at third to accommodate veteran DJ LeMahieu, who also plays both positions. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the situation, hinting at potential changes. “We’ll talk through the possibility of switching Jazz with DJ,” Boone told MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, signaling that the team is at least considering a shake-up.
The dilemma is clear: keep Chisholm at third base, where he’s less experienced but still serviceable, or move him back to his natural position and risk disrupting the infield chemistry. LeMahieu, a two-time batting champion, brings a steady glove and veteran presence, but his offensive output has waned compared to Chisholm’s recent surge. With the AL East race tightening, the Yankees can’t afford to ignore Chisholm’s concerns—or his production.
As New York looks to halt its slide and solidify its grip on the division, Boone faces a critical decision. Chisholm’s fiery bat and outspoken personality make him a cornerstone of the Yankees’ future, but his positional discontent could force the team to rethink its strategy. Will they prioritize his comfort at second base, or ask him to continue grinding at third for the sake of team balance? One thing is certain: the resolution of this dilemma could shape the Yankees’ path in a fiercely competitive AL East.