Chisholm’s move jazz up roll call, Yankees’ Don cites his love for spotlight
- August 3, 2024
- 9:25 am
- One Comment
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Follow UsOn Friday night, Jazz Chisholm Jr. made his highly anticipated debut in pinstripes at Yankee Stadium, giving fans their first in-person glimpse of the dynamic player who had already impressed in away games against the Red Sox and Phillies.
During the bleacher creatures’ roll call, Chisholm responded with a playful move, mimicking a step-back jump shot, much to the delight of the crowd. Throughout the night, he received enthusiastic applause from the fans.
Prior to the game, which concluded with an 8-5 loss to the Blue Jays, Chisholm spoke warmly about Yankees fans. He recalled the positive reception he received even during his tenure with the Marlins and noted fans’ long-standing desire to see him in New York. The 26-year-old outfielder shared his excitement about joining the team and his eagerness to perform for the home crowd.
Chisholm’s anticipation for his home debut was evident in his attire. At the pre-game press conference, he sported a T-shirt referencing Yankee Stadium’s iconic 314-foot short porch in right field. When asked about the shirt, the new Yankees star humorously suggested it was part of his game plan for the day. He then clarified that while the shirt was worn in jest, he was genuinely excited to play in a park where even slightly early contact could result in a home run.
This light-hearted approach showcased Chisholm’s enthusiasm for his new home field and his desire to build a strong connection with the Yankees fanbase.
Despite his initial excitement, Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s Yankee Stadium debut did not go as planned, as he went hitless in four at-bats with two strikeouts. This performance contrasted sharply with his strong start as a Yankee in previous games.
Before joining the Yankees, Chisholm had a relatively modest season with the Marlins, posting a .249/.323/.407 slash line and a .730 OPS. However, his transition to the Yankees seemed to revitalize him. In his first four games with the team, he had already recorded two multi-homer games, driven in eight runs, and notched hits in each contest.
Chisholm also displayed versatility by excelling at third base, a position he had never played before. His debut home game as a Yankee was particularly special, with numerous family members and friends in attendance.
Reflecting on his new circumstances, Chisholm contrasted his current situation with his past experiences. Having previously played for teams with lower expectations and smaller crowds, he now finds himself in a high-pressure environment with championship aspirations, alongside star players like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto.
Chisholm expressed his excitement about this new chapter, stating that he thrives in high-stakes situations and enjoys playing for winning teams. He emphasized that being surrounded by talented teammates motivates him to perform at his best. The competitive atmosphere and the opportunity to play alongside accomplished players like Judge and Soto serve as significant sources of inspiration and encouragement for him to reach his full potential.
Ex-Coach Don Mattingly notes Chisholm’s flair for drama
Don Mattingly, who managed Jazz Chisholm Jr. during his first three seasons with the Marlins, provided valuable insights into the young player’s potential and personality. Having overseen his major league debut in 2020, his establishment as a regular player in 2021, and his All-Star breakthrough in 2022, Mattingly believes that there is still untapped talent in the energetic infielder.
The former Marlins manager acknowledged Chisholm’s sometimes contentious relationships with teammates, which contributed to his polarizing reputation in Miami. With his recent trade to the Yankees, questions have arisen about how he would adapt to a high-pressure market and a clubhouse filled with superstar teammates, a new experience in his career.
However, Mattingly, now serving as the Blue Jays’ bench coach, expressed optimism about Chisholm’s fit with the Yankees. He suggested that the spotlight of New York could benefit the player, who thrives on attention. Mattingly also noted that being surrounded by accomplished players like Aaron Judge could positively impact Chisholm’s development.
“This is a good place for him, honestly,” the Yankees legend said. “I just think he likes the spotlight. I think it’s just better for him. [Aaron] Judge and those types of guys around him — he’s a really good player.”
Chisholm’s immediate impact with the Yankees—hitting four home runs in his first four games—seems to support Mattingly’s assessment. The 26-year-old’s versatility has also been on display, as he quickly adapts to third base after previously playing shortstop and center field. Mattingly highlighted Chisholm’s athleticism and strong arm as assets that should help him succeed in this new role, a transition that many players would find challenging.
Don Mattingly reflected on Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s tenure with the Marlins, acknowledging some interpersonal challenges. Initially downplaying the drama, Mattingly later attributed some issues to the player’s youth, emphasizing the complexities of team dynamics in the modern era.
The former manager highlighted the ongoing tension in baseball between traditional norms and younger players’ desire for self-expression. He referenced Chisholm’s appearance on a podcast in March, where the player discussed conflicts between younger, fun-loving players and veterans adhering to more conservative approaches.
“There was not that much drama — I guess there was,” Mattingly said. “I don’t know. It’s in the past. He was young. It’s how you go about things. It’s tricky nowadays.”
Chisholm had recounted an incident where Marlins veterans reprimanded a rookie for mimicking Juan Soto’s batting stance, despite the rookie’s lack of established credentials. Reports from Miami often depicted him as representing a younger faction of players, sometimes clashing with veteran leaders like Miguel Rojas.
Mattingly expressed affection for both sides involved in these conflicts. He suggested that while veterans often had good intentions in guiding younger players, the approach and communication methods were crucial in determining the outcome of such interactions.
When asked about Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s personality, Don Mattingly likened him to Manny Ramirez, emphasizing his unique and authentic nature. He admired Chisholm’s fearless approach, especially at the plate.
“Jazz is Jazz. He’s himself,” he said. “I love Jazz just from the standpoint of I think he’s fearless. I don’t think he’s afraid of anybody out there at the plate.”
Discussing Chisholm’s on-field performance, Mattingly suggested that the player has yet to reach his full potential. Despite Chisholm’s All-Star selection in 2022, a season shortened by injury, his recent performance with the Marlins had been closer to the league average. Before the trade, Chisholm was batting .249 with a .730 OPS and had stolen 22 bases, though he was caught eight times.
Mattingly speculated that the Yankees’ environment, with its strong leadership under Aaron Judge and championship aspirations, could serve as a catalyst for Chisholm’s development. He recalled being immediately impressed by Chisholm’s raw talent, noting his speed, dynamic swing, and surprising power for his size.
“You don’t know how fast or how long or how quick it’s going to come,” the ex-Yankee said. “But when you see that kind of speed, the dynamism of the swing, the quickness, leverage. A little guy hits the ball a long way. “You see that kind of leverage, that quick-twitch. It’s just a matter of how much better he gets. He’s still probably just scratching the surface of what he can do.”
The former manager highlighted Chisholm’s quick-twitch abilities and leverage, qualities that suggest significant untapped potential. Mattingly expressed uncertainty about the timeline of Chisholm’s development but conveyed optimism about his capacity for growth, suggesting that Chisholm may only be beginning to unlock his full capabilities as a player.
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