The All-Star second baseman, acquired from the Miami Marlins on Saturday, struck out in his first at-bat for New York.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. stepped into the bright lights of Fenway Park on Sunday night, making his much-anticipated debut for the New York Yankees against their arch-rivals, the Boston Red Sox. The 26-year-old infielder, acquired from the Miami Marlins just a day earlier, was thrust into the heart of the Yankees' lineup, batting fifth and patrolling center field.
Donning the iconic pinstripes and the unfamiliar number 13, Chisholm arrived at the historic ballpark about 90 minutes before the first pitch, ready to embark on a new chapter in his young career. Manager Aaron Boone had penciled him into the lineup, eager to see the dynamic athlete's impact on the team.
"Right now, I've got him in the middle of the order," Boone said about 40 minutes before Chisholm arrived. "I kind of see him there right now, especially the way (Alex Verdugo), I feel like, is starting to swing the bat."
Chisholm, who made his All-Star debut just last year as a second baseman, has spent most of the past two seasons playing center field. His versatility, combined with his impressive offensive skills, made him a highly sought-after acquisition for the Yankees.
In five seasons with the Marlins, Chisholm has compiled a .246 batting average, 66 homers, and 205 RBIs. This year, he has batted .249 with 13 homers and 50 RBIs. His ability to both hit for power and steal bases (he has 22 stolen bases this season) adds a new dimension to the Yankees' offense.
While Chisholm's primary position with the Yankees is expected to be in the outfield, Boone hinted that he could also see time at third base, a position he has never played in the majors.
"I want him to start working there. It's not something he's played, obviously. He came up as a shortstop. I feel like he has the skill set to do it," Boone said. "I know he's open to doing it, but I want to see how that looks. … Excited to have him. We're a better team today, a better roster with him here."
To make room for Chisholm on the roster, the Yankees designated infielder J.D. Davis for assignment. Davis had struggled in his brief stint with New York, going 2 for 19 with one RBI and nine strikeouts in seven games.
Meanwhile, Boone provided an update on the status of slugger Giancarlo Stanton, who has been sidelined with a left hamstring strain since June 22. Stanton is expected to come off the injured list on Monday in Philadelphia.
With Chisholm in the lineup, the Yankees hoped to continue their winning ways. They entered Sunday's game with a 58-42 record, tied with the Tampa Bay Rays for first place in the AL East. Chisholm's arrival brings a newfound energy and excitement to the team as they chase their first World Series title since 2009.
