BOSTON — A Mixed Series for the Yankees

In a recent series, the Red Sox celebrated three victories while the Yankees faced three losses. Some standout pitching was evident but the Yankees did manage a critical hit.

While there wasn’t much to smile about at Fenway Park, one development stood out: Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s potential breakthrough.

The skilled second baseman struggled initially, mustering only one hit in his first 21 games. However, during the series against the Red Sox, he managed to increase his tally, collecting two hits in three attempts during a standout game.

Chisholm hadn’t hit any home runs in his first 23 games, but that changed in the series’ final matchup when he launched one over an awkward pole.

His OPS (On-base Plus Slugging) improved from .498 to .556 over three games. Specifically in the last game, he seemed to adjust his approach by taking a step back at the plate and adopting a more closed-off stance.

“I feel like I’ve opened up a little bit more, and I think it’s helped me tighten my stance,” Chisholm reflected after seeing immediate results in Thursday’s 4-2 victory.

Just the day before, he noticed that his previous open stance, coupled with the crowd at the plate, was causing him to hit the ball to the left rather than effectively capitalizing on pitches.

After refining his technique, the left-handed batter took advantage of a fastball from lefty Peyton Toll in the fifth inning, sending it toward the right field pole.

In the seventh, he also made an impression with a solid single to center field off another left-hander, Danny Coulon. Later, in the eighth inning, he grounded out but still showcased quickness with a forceout.

“That was probably his best set of at-bats, especially against some tough left-handed pitchers,” said manager Aaron Boone, noting Chisholm’s two hits, one strikeout, and two RBIs in four at-bats. “It was great to see that.”

When questioned about the absence of home runs, Chisholm smiled and commented, “I wouldn’t say I was too worried about the home runs. It’d be nice to have more, but since it’s only April, I’m not really focused on that.”

Currently, Chisholm holds a batting average of .188, with just one home run in 24 games. He seemed hopeful for more than the 50 home runs he aspired to at the season’s end. The hope was to have a stronger start than this, bolstered by walks that were part of his approach.

Reflecting on his past April performance, which was the worst month of his All-Star season, there’s a chance he just needs more time—or perhaps some adjustments—to find his rhythm.

“You tend to face some challenges early in the season,” Chisholm acknowledged. “But at the end of the day, it feels good to finally hit one.”