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The New York Yankees had another playoff disappointment, getting swept by the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS.
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New York enters every season with World Series or bust expectations, but in back-to-back years, the Yankees were dominated in the ALDS. The Yankees should have some roster changes, and it does seem like Jazz Chisholm Jr. will be playing elsewhere.
Chisholm had a disappointing year, but it feels like that relationship is coming to an end. If Chisholm does leave in free agency, New York has a logical option to replace him.
The Yankees could go out and sign a second baseman, but the free agent class isn’t a great one. So, the most logical move is simply going internal and shifting Anthony Volpe to second base.
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George Lombard Jr. should be the full-time shortstop going forward; while Volpe proved himself in the playoffs, so he deserves to be on the roster. When Volpe was optioned to Triple-A, he played games at second base, and that position feels better for him.
Volpe made some costly errors at shortstop, but at second base, the range and throws aren’t as difficult. He suits better at second base, and his bat easily replaces Chisholm.
Along with that, Volpe is much cheaper than Chisholm, so the money the Yankees save from letting Chisholm walk, they can spend elsewhere. New York could add another outfield bat to replace Trent Grisham – who also likely will be gone – and some more bullpen help.
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Regardless, it does appear Chisholm’s time in the Bronx is over, and the Yankees should just turn to Volpe at second base. New York can also then trot out Lombard and Volpe up the middle for the next decade, as long as both continue to produce.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. Leaves Door Open for a Return to Yankees
After the Yankees were swept by the Rays in the ALDS, some players were asked about their futures.
If Chisholm hits the open market, he’d be one of the best free agents, so his market should be robust, despite his bad year. Yet, after the series, he made it clear that he is open to returning.
“I grew up as a Yankee fan. Being from the Bahamas, watching Derek Jeter. I loved my time as a Yankee. I had great times as a Yankee – had an All-Star year, had a Silver Slugger year. Who doesn’t want to stay with the team you have such great times with?,” Chisholm said after the game.
The Yankees acquired Chisholm in July of 2024, and he became an impact hitter for New York. He’s a two-time All-Star and was named a Silver Slugger for the first time in his career in 2025.
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This story was originally published October 9, 2026 at 7:03 AM.