The New York Yankees received some tough news regarding Jazz Chisholm Jr. on Wednesday, as the second baseman was placed on the 10-day injured list with a sprained right thumb. The timing is particularly frustrating for New York, as Chisholm had finally started to find his rhythm at the plate.
The Yankees responded by recalling Anthony Volpe from Triple-A, potentially creating an intriguing situation in the infield for the final weeks of the season.
Chisholm will miss at least the next 7-10 days
Chisholm suffered the injury while sliding into second base during Tuesday’s 5-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies. He initially remained in the game but was removed in the ninth inning after making a poor throw to first base.
Imaging revealed the sprained thumb, and manager Aaron Boone said Chisholm will not participate in baseball activities for 7-10 days before the Yankees reassess his condition. With only 18 regular-season games remaining, the injury creates legitimate concern about whether Chisholm will have enough time to return before the postseason.
That’s especially disappointing because Chisholm had been playing some of his best baseball of the season. He was hitting .295 with an .832 OPS and 10 stolen bases over his previous 29 games, showing signs that his bat was finally coming around.
Anthony Volpe gets another opportunity
The Yankees immediately turned to Volpe, recalling him from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Volpe has been outstanding since his demotion, hitting .333 with eight home runs and a 1.218 OPS over his last 17 games. He also expanded his defensive versatility, making starts at second base and third base after previously being primarily a shortstop.
That makes Volpe an especially interesting replacement for Chisholm.
Manager Aaron Boone has already indicated he is comfortable using Volpe at second base, and the former first-round pick could now have an opportunity to show that his offensive adjustments are legitimate.
For the Yankees, losing Chisholm is unquestionably a blow. But Volpe’s return could provide an unexpected opportunity to evaluate whether he can become a significant part of the team’s infield plans beyond 2026.