Jazz Chisholm Jr. Keeps the Unusual Combo Alive
Jazz Chisholm Jr. isn’t planning to revert to his usual gear anytime soon. Recently, he’s been sporting Giancarlo Stanton’s pants and swinging Jose Caballero’s bat, and it seems to be working. In Monday’s 7-6 victory, he added two more hits to his tally, one of which was a two-run homer that struck the left-field foul pole in the seventh inning.
“That’s just how it’s going to be. [Stanton’s pants] and Jose’s bat,” he remarked.
Aaron Boone, the team’s manager, expressed that Chisholm looked “great” in his mismatched outfit. However, he pointed out that there’s a more conventional reason behind Chisholm’s recent surge in performance.
“Jazz’s swing has been improving over the last few days,” Boone noted. “He showed that on Sunday against the Mets too.”
This transformation is clearly visible. Boone mentioned, “He used to miss hits that he should have connected with. Now, we’re seeing him reach a level comparable to the top players. He wasn’t far off; he just needed to find his rhythm.”
As for the unconventional outfit choice, Boone said, “Whatever he has to do to succeed.”
Anthony Volpe, meanwhile, appears hopeful that Caballero could soon make a return from a broken finger. He also contributed with two hits and two stolen bases in the game.
“They’re not an easy team to face,” Boone stated regarding the Toronto Blue Jays. “Anthony really took charge.”
After some minor league rehab and a shaky return to the majors, Volpe seemed more comfortable at the plate.
“His at-bats are significantly better than before. He’s been managing the strike zone much better over the last few days,” Boone added.
Regarding Caballero, who has started light playing after his injury, Boone mentioned that he could be ready to leave the injured list by May 2.
In roster news, right-hander Yovanny Cruz has been called up from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Although he hasn’t pitched above Double-A before joining the Yankees, his impressive 100 mph fastball caught attention, and he had some promising appearances during spring training, even after recovering from a shoulder injury.
However, his recent outings haven’t been stellar; Cruz has allowed runs in five consecutive games, posting 23 strikeouts in 18 innings during his time in Triple-A.
Boone acknowledged the potential, stating, “We really like what he can bring.” Yet, there are concerns about his command, particularly with managing the running game.
To make room for Cruz, Elmer Rodriguez has been optioned back to SWB, despite having had one of his best outings with the Yankees recently. Rodriguez expressed, “It’s a tough situation. I’m trying to focus on the positives and look forward to getting back.”
In other news, the Yankees wore a patch on their uniforms to honor John Sterling, the broadcaster who recently passed away. Sterling’s family attended a pregame tribute.
