SARASOTA, Fla. — Ambitious Goals for Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Last September, after achieving a 30-30 season, Jazz Chisholm Jr. was already eyeing the next milestone—40-40. Fast forward five months, and now he’s drawn into discussions about Shohei Ohtani’s unprecedented 50-50 season, something that has only been accomplished once in the sport’s history.

Chisholm’s attitude? He never aims low, nor does he get complacent.

“I only say what I believe I can achieve,” he remarked after getting on base twice during his spring debut, a 2-0 loss to the Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium. “I always keep a positive outlook. I wouldn’t tell myself or anyone else, ‘This year, I’m just going to hit 10 homers and bat .250.’ That sounds like giving up. Who wants to be a loser?”

“I’m going to shoot for the stars. If that doesn’t work out, hey, I’ll aim for the moon.”

In terms of performance, Chisholm certainly made an impact last season, finishing with 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases, even after missing a month due to an abdominal injury and avoiding steals while dealing with a groin issue.

Now in his final year with the Yankees, Chisholm has significant financial stakes at hand, with potentially lucrative contracts on the line. Still, he plans to turn that pressure into motivation.

“I think it really brings out my best,” he shared. “A contract year? That just fuels me. I thrive under pressure. It’s about making every game meaningful. I’ve got family, friends, and teammates counting on me. Plus, I do it for myself.”

“In the end, when you’re doing your thing, why not be excited? Enjoy the ride. Life’s like a roller coaster; if you’re not having fun, what’s the point? But if you embrace it, it can be one of the best experiences.”

As a personal note, Chisholm expressed that he’s dedicating this season to his childhood best friend, who passed away unexpectedly last year.

“I’m playing for my best buddy, so he won’t have to see me become a free agent. He can’t witness me signing that long-term deal we always dreamed about since we were kids. It’s tough not having him around. I really miss him. So yes, that’s who I’m playing for.”

Jake Byrd made a notable appearance as well, pitching a scoreless inning in relief, allowing just an infield single, quickly nullified by a double play.