Jazz Chisholm Jr. is expected to return soon from a right thumb sprain, presenting the New York Yankees with several roster decisions as they approach the final week of the regular season. The second baseman could be reinstated from the injured list as early as Tuesday’s doubleheader against the Tampa Bay Rays, a move that appears straightforward on the surface but could prompt lineup adjustments.
Chisholm sustained his injury while diving into second base on September 8, leading the Yankees to recall Anthony Volpe, who has primarily played second base since his promotion. Over 10 games, Volpe has started nine times at second, delivering a .286 batting average, a .753 OPS, and four stolen bases. Despite his solid performance, it remains unclear if Volpe will retain playing time once Chisholm is back in the lineup.
Prior to his call-up, Volpe had begun taking on more third base duties at Triple-A, starting three games at the position, prompting some speculation about whether he might shift to third base for the Yankees. Manager Aaron Boone responded cautiously to such suggestions, stating, “First things first, getting Jazz back and then we’ll figure it out as the week unfolds how I want to play it.”
The Yankees have struggled offensively at third base this season, particularly since the return of Ryan McMahon from his own thumb injury on September 1. McMahon has hit just .150 with a .402 OPS in the 40 at-bats since his return. José Caballero started at third base over McMahon in Sunday’s game against a right-handed pitcher, while Amed Rosario has frequently been utilized at third against left-handed pitchers. Although Rosario’s recent production has fallen short of his career standards, the Yankees continue to trust in his potential.
Boone also left open the possibility of platooning Volpe and Chisholm at second base. The left-handed-hitting Chisholm has struggled against left-handed pitchers this season, hitting .221 with a .654 OPS, but had been showing signs of improvement before his injury, batting .391 with a 1.028 OPS over his last 15 games.
The Yankees face multiple important roster choices in the coming days as they prepare for the postseason. Boone acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “You know it’s going to take a lot of players and a lot of people when you get to spring training and the season unfolds. We’ll have hopefully some tough decisions to make when we’re setting postseason rosters and things like that. But that’s a better problem to have.”
Meanwhile, right-handed reliever Clarke Schmidt is slated to see the team doctor early this week after experiencing biceps cramping during warmups on Sunday, which prevented him from entering that game. Schmidt recently returned from Tommy John surgery and is working to secure a role in the playoff bullpen.
Left-hander Ryan Weathers, currently sidelined with a left forearm flexor strain, is expected to face hitters this week as he attempts to demonstrate his readiness for postseason duty, despite not having pitched in a game since August 22.