Jazz Chisholm Jr. returned to the New York Yankees lineup with a radiant smile and a performance that electrified fans in a 3-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. In his first game back after over a month sidelined by an oblique injury, Chisholm went 2-for-3, including a home run that had him beaming with confidence. “My story is that I’ve hit 1,000 home runs in my dreams, so I had to know that one was going,” he quipped during a lively postgame interview, even referencing Reggie Jackson’s advice about targeting the short porch at Yankee Stadium for a homer.
Chisholm’s infectious energy was on full display as he reflected on his performance. “Honestly, I pictured going three-for-three,” he said with a sly grin. “But I’ll take a two-for-three. This is how I wanted to start my comeback.” His single also broke up an early no-hit bid, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
Surprisingly, Chisholm’s return came at third base, a position he hadn’t anticipated revisiting after a 45-game stint there following his trade from the Miami Marlins last July. Initially acquired to play second base, Chisholm was shifted to third due to Gleyber Torres’ presence at the time. However, with Torres now signed to the Detroit Tigers and circumstances like Oswaldo Cabrera’s season-ending ankle injury on May 11, the Yankees needed Chisholm’s versatility. DJ LeMahieu’s time at second base during his rehab assignment further paved the way for Chisholm’s return to third.
“I really thought I was done at third base,” Chisholm admitted, still smiling. “I didn’t think I was going to see it. I thought I left my career over there with a good stamp, you know? But I guess we’re back again. We got to shine again. We can’t let that reputation go down at third base.” His team-first attitude shone through, a stark contrast to the negative perceptions that lingered from his days with the Marlins, where he debuted in 2020. The Yankees’ thorough vetting process clearly paid off, as Chisholm has embraced his role with enthusiasm.
“I just want to win,” he emphasized. “I want a ring. All I think about is being a team guy. I want to help my team win, and this is my favorite organization I’ve ever been a part of.” This mindset stands in contrast to reported challenges faced by the Boston Red Sox in managing Rafael Devers’ transition from third base to designated hitter and first base after signing Alex Bregman and losing Triston Casas for the season. While the Red Sox struggled with communication, the Yankees’ clear dialogue with Chisholm has fostered a seamless transition.
Chisholm’s smooth play and dynamic presence have reinvigorated the Yankees, who are still stinging from their World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers four months ago. “He’s just so smooth and has such a great arm,” Chisholm said of his own versatility. “You can play him wherever you want.” Whether at second base or third, his return has sparked hope among fans that this could mark a turning point for the Yankees’ 2025 season. With Chisholm’s smile lighting up Yankee Stadium, the team and its supporters are dreaming of bigger victories ahead.