New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. found himself at the center of a debate after aggressively stealing two bases late in a game against the Boston Red Sox on Sunday at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California. The play, which came during a lopsided ninth inning, drew sharp criticism from Red Sox broadcaster Will Flemming, who called Chisholm a “bush league player” and accused him of breaching baseball’s unwritten etiquette by running in a non-competitive situation.

The incident unfolded in the eighth inning with the Yankees holding a commanding lead. After Chisholm walked with no outs, Red Sox first baseman Nick Sogard elected not to hold him on first base. Yankees manager Aaron Boone, initially instructing Chisholm not to run, changed his directive following Boston’s decision. Boone then signaled Chisholm to steal, prompting a two-base advance that contributed to a nine-run inning for New York.

Boone confronted Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy from the dugout, stating that Boston could not expect to avoid aggressive baserunning if they chose not to control Chisholm on the base paths. When the Red Sox dugout did not adjust, Boone authorized the steal as part of his effort to increase the lead and protect his bullpen, which had been heavily used in recent games.

Chisholm responded to Flemming’s comments Monday, expressing surprise and dismissing the criticism. “The unwritten rules, they’re called unwritten rules because you’re not really breaking any rules,” Chisholm said. He pointed out that the Red Sox themselves had run up the score in previous games without attracting similar rebuke. Chisholm characterized Flemming’s remarks as unprofessional and said he did not expect or seek an apology; Flemming subsequently apologized both in a phone conversation with Boone and on social media for crossing a line.

Boone stood by his decision, emphasizing his respect for traditional baseball norms but affirming his obligation to prioritize his team’s interests. “I’m an old-school baseball guy,” Boone said, “I respect some of the unwritten rules... but they’ve evolved and changed.” He rejected suggestions that running in that situation was tantamount to conceding the game, noting that both teams remained committed to scoring through the ninth inning. Boone also highlighted the tactical aspect, explaining that adding runs would help preserve key bullpen arms for upcoming games.

At stake was not only the immediate game but also the season series between the Yankees and Red Sox, which influences home-field advantage should the teams finish the regular season tied. The incident underscores the ongoing debate in baseball over sportsmanship and strategy when lopsided scores test the boundaries of tradition.