Chisholm’s Playoff Bench Decision Sparks Interest

Jazz Chisholm Jr. found himself watching from the bench to kick off Game 3 of the ALDS for the Yankees, and he wasn’t in the mood to discuss it afterward.

When a reporter brought up his benching, Chisholm simply replied, “No comment, next.”

The Yankees ultimately lost 4-3, completing a sweep by the Rays, who outperformed them across the board on Wednesday night.

In the ALDS, Chisholm struggled significantly, finishing with an 0-for-8 record and just a walk over the three games against the Rays.

He was benched for Game 3 in favor of Anthony Volpe at second base. Yankees manager Aaron Boone explained his choice, saying, “Just felt like it. I felt like I wanted to go with him today.”

Broadcaster Brian Anderson shared his observation regarding Chisholm’s reaction: “I tell you one thing Jazz doesn’t like: not being in the starting lineup,” he noted, especially as Chisholm entered as a pinch hitter in the seventh inning. “He was upset.”

Chisholm faced boos from the crowd during his initial at-bat after stepping in for Jose Caballero, who had started at third base.

He barely managed to avoid a season-ending double play in the ninth inning with a hard-hit ball to second base.

When questioned about the crowd’s reaction, Chisholm said, “It doesn’t hurt. It’s just confusing because it’s the playoffs and we’re trying to win games. So you’re booing a guy that’s playing, trying to help the team win.”

The Yankees are heading into another disappointing offseason, with fans eager for change, though the front office has been reluctant to make major moves.

As for Chisholm, his future with the team is uncertain. As a soon-to-be free agent, he’s expected to seek a substantial contract with numerous teams likely to show interest.

He hasn’t been immune to the scrutiny in New York, having made errors that hurt the team. In Game 2, he had a rough start, mishandling a double play attempt that allowed a run to score.

At one point, he also seemed to lose focus on a ground ball, failing to position himself correctly to make an attempt at home plate.

Reflecting on his experience as a Yankee, Chisholm said, “I grew up as a Yankee fan. Being from the Bahamas, watching Derek Jeter. I loved my time as a Yankee. I had great times as a Yankee – had an All-Star year, had a Silver Slugger year. Who doesn’t want to stay with the team you have such great times with?”

“I do hope to be back,” he added.