Oswald Peraza is set to return to the majors as the Yankees navigate the loss of Jazz Chisholm Jr., who was placed on the injured list with a UCL injury. Chisholm, acquired by the Yankees at the trade deadline, made an immediate impact with seven home runs in 14 games. However, his aggressive base-running resulted in the injury, leaving a significant gap in the Yankees’ lineup.
The Yankees are expected to be without Chisholm for at least a week or two and have called up top prospect Oswald Peraza, according to Daniel Álvarez-Montes of El Extrabase.
“With Jazz Chisholm Jr. expected to be placed on the 10-day IL, INF Oswald Peraza is on his way to Chicago to join the Yankees,” Álvarez-Montes reported.
Peraza gets another shot in the majors
Oswald Peraza, a former Top 100 prospect, has had a rollercoaster journey within the Yankees organization. Once considered the shortstop of the future, Peraza’s path has been anything but straightforward. After a promising debut in September 2022, where he hit .306/.404/.429 in 18 games, Peraza found himself in a crowded infield situation the following year.
The rise of Anthony Volpe, who secured the starting shortstop role in spring training 2023, pushed Oswald Peraza down the depth chart. His struggles at the major league level that season, compounded by injuries and inconsistent playing time, left him batting just .191/.267/.272 over 52 games.
In 2024, Oswald Peraza faced additional challenges, including a right shoulder strain that delayed his start to the Triple-A season. When he finally returned to action, his performance was underwhelming, batting only .210/.325/.251 in 44 games through the end of the first half. However, Peraza has shown signs of resurgence since the All-Star break. Over the last 21 games, he has been on a tear, hitting .316/.407/.658 with six doubles, seven home runs, and eight stolen bases.
The Yankees’ decision to recall Oswald Peraza comes at a critical time. His recent hot streak has made him a viable option to fill the void left by Chisholm. Despite this, it remains uncertain how much playing time Peraza will receive. Manager Aaron Boone has suggested a timeshare at third base between Oswaldo Cabrera and DJ LeMahieu, with Jon Berti also nearing a return from injury. This creates a crowded situation for Peraza, who may find himself in a backup role.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Oswald Peraza’s future with the Yankees. If he can carve out regular playing time and continue his recent form, he may solidify his place on the roster. However, if he remains on the bench, his tenure with the Yankees could be in jeopardy after 2024.
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DJ can no longer hit.
Period.