Chisholm Feels Rejuvenated Post-Derby
St. Louis – Jazz Chisholm Jr. is optimistic about his return to form, despite the so-called curse of the Home Run Derby. A month after participating in the event, he’s feeling more like himself again, hitting well just when the Yankees need him most.
“I’m starting to feel like I can hit the pitch again,” Chisholm shared after hitting a two-run homer that secured a 4-3 win over the Cardinals at Busch Stadium on Friday night. “When I get to the plate, I’m just ready to crush it.”
Before the summer break, Chisholm was swinging the bat like one of the Yankees’ top hitters, earning a spot in the All-Star Game and the Derby itself.
However, after his Derby experience, where he hit just three homers—far fewer than other participants—Chisholm struggled initially. He had promised himself not to overextend his swing during the event, but it seemed to dampen his timing.
“No, I feel… [All-Star] Game I hit a line drive, and returned to the series after the derby. Finally, I’m finding my groove again and keeping the ball in the zone,” he noted.
During his first 20 games back, he only managed a .197 batting average (15 hits in 76 at-bats) with two home runs and a tough 25 strikeouts. It wasn’t the comeback he had envisioned.
Yet, in the next game, with manager Aaron Boone’s encouragement and facing left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez, Chisholm seems to have rediscovered his rhythm.
Since Saturday, he’s improved his performance, hitting .294 (5 for 17) with a strong OPS of 1.193, including two home runs and a triple.
“Honestly, it took longer than I thought it would, but I’m feeling good now,” he admitted.
As the Yankees push for the playoffs, his resurgence is crucial. Chisholm possesses an intriguing mix of speed and power, but he sometimes has difficulty maintaining consistency.
“He’s been in a bit of a rut for about a week or ten days, but it seems like he’s starting to gain some traction,” Boone commented. “When he’s dialed in, he really can change the game. It feels like he’s getting back to where he was a few weeks ago.”
Chisholm’s season is notable as he’s aiming for a 20-20 year, especially after missing over a month due to an oblique strain. He entered Saturday’s game with an impressive tally of 21 home runs and 18 stolen bases, joining an elite group of players.
