Jazz Chisholm Jr. wrapped up his minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Somerset on Sunday, going 0-for-3 with a strikeout as the designated hitter. In all, Chisholm played in three rehab games and is expected to be activated off the injured list before the Yankees begin a three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians at the Stadium.
Chisholm will return to a different team than the one he left.
In his absence, Oswaldo Cabrera fractured his ankle and DJ LeMahieu got healthy and came off the injured list. So, Chisholm will return to play third base, not second like he was playing before he strained his oblique muscle on April 30.
In 30 games this season, Chisholm has posted a .181 batting average with 19 hits, seven home runs, 17 RBIs, and six stolen bases. Despite the low average, his power and speed have been contributing significantly to the Yankees’ offense
Manager Aaron Boone announced earlier this week that Chisholm is expected to be activated as early as Tuesday and will take over at third base.
This move comes after Cabrera’s season-ending injury and LeMahieu’s return to second base. The Yankees are hoping that making LeMahieu comfortable at second base might help him get back some of his stroke from his two batting champion seasons. Or that it might be easier for the Yankees to find a second baseman on the trade market.
Chisholm’s versatility allows the Yankees to make those adjustments. He had learned to play third on the fly last season after the Yankees acquired him at the trade deadline. His move could help the Yankees at this year’s deadline.
While Chisholm’s rehab stint was brief, the Yankees hope his energy can help them rebound after a brutal weekend in Los Angeles.
