The New York Yankees (75-53) are getting back their prized midseason acquisition. Jazz Chisholm Jr. is being activated from the 10-day injured list, per the team, and is expected to play in Friday's game against the visiting Colorado Rockies (47-81).
With Aaron Judge and Juan Soto operating at full force, an additional big bat could help the Yankees hold onto the best record in the American League and propel them to a momentous postseason this October. Chisholm was indeed bringing the firepower through his first 14 games with New York, smashing the baseball for a .316 batting average, seven home runs and 11 RBIs.
The scorching hot run was unfortunately extinguished, at least temporarily, when he sustained a left elbow sprain in a blowout loss to the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 12. Though, the relatively quick recovery indicates that the 26-year-old infielder and outfielder feels comfortable enough with his swing to return to the Yankees lineup.
A weekend series versus the Rockies' dreadful pitching staff (own an MLB-worst 5.54 ERA) could offer Chisholm the smooth transition that he craves. Manager Aaron Boone is definitely hoping that is the case, anyway, as he knows how important the 2022 National League All-Star is to this team.
Can Jazz Chisholm Jr. be the Yankees' third offensive star?
Anthony Volpe, Austin Wells and Gleyber Torres have all given the Yanks' a shot in the arm at different points of the year, but it is time for a player to establish himself as the clear No. 3 game-changer in the batting order. Jazz Chisholm Jr. might be the most well-equipped to carry that critical role.
The Bahamian possesses the right combination of power (20 home runs in 115 games) and speed (27 stolen bases) to thrive in the playoffs. While New York typically boasts a plethora of sluggers, a lack of versatility and athleticism has repeatedly hobbled the club in the postseason. Balance is essential during fall baseball.
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Just look at the makeup of the Arizona Diamondbacks team that stunningly reached the World Series last year. They followed the lead of All-Stars Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll but also needed to rely on their defense, base-running ability and veteran leadership.
The Yankees already have the luxury of trotting out two of the best hitters in the game, so imagine the magical effect those added intangibles can produce. If Aaron Judge can continue his legendary campaign, and Juan Soto maintains his career form, then the value that Jazz Chisholm Jr. provides could be the impetus to a drought-ending year.
Make no mistake, though. This young talent is not a cherry on top of a delicious Yankees' ice cream sundae. He is possibly the X-factor during their upcoming playoffs run. Chisholm will look to prove as much now that he is rejoining the men in pinstripes.
