The New York Yankees faced off against the Boston Red Sox in the first game of their wild card series on Tuesday night, resulting in a 3-1 loss for the Yankees. A notable absence from the starting lineup was second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had a strong season, hitting 31 home runs and stealing 31 bases, joining a select group of players in MLB history to achieve this feat.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone opted to start Amed Rosario at second base instead of Chisholm, citing a favorable matchup against Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet, a left-handed pitcher. Rosario had a prior record of success against Crochet and a good batting average against left-handed pitchers this year. However, Rosario went hitless in three at-bats.
Chisholm’s reaction to not starting was evident in his post-game demeanor. During a media session in the Yankees’ clubhouse, he appeared disengaged, keeping his back turned and focusing on his locker.
When asked about being informed of the decision, Chisholm stated that Boone had texted him the night before to let him know he wouldn’t be in the starting lineup. Chisholm acknowledged the team’s need to do whatever it takes to win. When questioned about his surprise at not starting, he simply replied, “I guess, yeah.”
Chisholm entered the game in the eighth inning for defensive purposes. In the ninth inning, he faced another left-handed pitcher, Aroldis Chapman, with the bases loaded and no outs. Unfortunately, he flew out, and the Yankees were unable to score.
The decision to remove starting pitcher Max Fried after 6.1 scoreless innings has drawn criticism. Relief pitcher Luke Weaver, who replaced Fried, allowed two runs, which the Yankees couldn’t recover from.
Looking ahead, the Yankees are set to play against Brayan Bello. With their season on the line, it is anticipated that Chisholm will return to the starting lineup against the right-handed pitcher.
