The Yankees have hit the jackpot with the signing of an important infielder

When the Yankees acquired Jazz Chisholm from the Miami Marlins at the trade deadline in late July, they weren't entirely sure where he would fit long-term. There were discussions about his potential value in center field and even the possibility of moving Gleyber Torres to third base. Ultimately, the Yankees decided Chisholm would take over at the hot corner, where he has played every inning since his arrival.

Jazz Chisholm's influence on the Yankees

Jazz Chisholm isn't just a player, he's a personality. His performance on the field has given the Yankees some much-needed momentum, but his energy and charisma have had just as big an impact. These intangible qualities are part of what makes him so valuable to the team.

The 26-year-old is under contract until he becomes a free agent in 2027, giving the Yankees two more controlled years with this versatile left-hander. Chisholm has played in a career-high 133 games this season, hitting 22 home runs with 66 RBIs and stealing 35 bases. While his overall numbers include a slash line of .261/.329/.443, his performance with the Yankees has been even more impressive.

Upswing in the Bronx

Since joining the Yankees, Chisholm has taken his game to new heights. In 32 games with the Bombers, he has a batting average of .298/.346/.556, with nine home runs, 16 RBIs and 13 stolen bases. His 153 wRC+ reflects his incredible efficiency. If his stolen base pace were extrapolated to a full 162-game season, Chisholm would have stolen 65 bases, far surpassing his previous career high of 23.

On Wednesday, Chisholm experienced his first walk-off moment in the Bronx and his reaction was priceless.

“I've never had this feeling before, it's surreal,” Chisholm said.

Eyes on October

While a walk-off win in September is exciting, Chisholm knows the excitement will only increase in October. The playoff atmosphere in the Bronx is legendary, and Chisholm can't wait to feel that energy.

“We got a strikeout in the bottom of the 8th inning and the whole crowd erupted in cheers. I was just wide-eyed and thought, 'This is awesome.' It's not even October yet, I can't wait.”

Chisholm feeds off that energy and uses it to elevate his performance. His dynamic style of play is exactly what the Yankees were hoping for when they signed him at the deadline. Although the Yankees traded away one of their top prospects, catcher Agustin Ramirez, they won't regret it, especially with Austin Wells emerging as a potential AL Rookie of the Year candidate.

Building momentum for the playoffs

Chisholm is aware that the Yankees are not yet at their full potential, but the team still holds a 1.5-game lead over the Baltimore Orioles in the American League East. Securing the division and avoiding the wild card is crucial for the Bombers, who want to enter the playoffs with momentum.

“We know we're not playing our best right now. Things aren't going well for anyone right now. That's how you stay together. This is a championship team and that's what we do. We fight hard and win games no matter who's up or down,” Chisholm said.

The way forward

With stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto struggling in recent weeks, the Yankees have until late September to find their rhythm. While offense is critical, the team has enough extra firepower to win games even when their best hitters aren't at their best.

Additionally, the Yankees' pitching has been trending in the right direction, giving the team hope that they will peak at the right time. With the postseason approaching, the Yankees are positioning themselves for a strong push toward a World Series title.