Yankees Manager Teases New Role for Returning Star Amid Dodgers Series While Addressing Lineup Change Rumors

Fresh off three consecutive wins against the Texas Rangers, the New York Yankees are now looking to stack up more results in their favor as they go against the Los Angeles Dodgers. But something equally compelling and intense is spiraling up beneath the surface as well. It has to do with the Yankees’ $5.85 million star, who is nearing his return after spending a whole month on the sidelines.

It’s Jazz Chisholm Jr, who left mid-game against the Baltimore Orioles on April 29 due to an apparent right oblique discomfort. It’s been over a month, and Chisholm is ready to make a comeback now.

Before his injury, the Bahamian dynamic infielder played second base at the Bronx. However, ahead of Friday night’s matchup against the Dodgers, Yankees manager Aaron Boone hinted at a new role for Chisholm when he rejoins the lineup.

On Saturday, he will be playing another minor league rehab game. And it’s likely that Chisholm will serve as a designated hitter against the Dodgers for Sunday’s game. With Oswaldo Cabrera sidelined, probably for the remainder of the year, the Yankees want to make the most of Chisholm’s versatility.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. will play in another minor league rehab game tomorrow, and may DH Sunday. Aaron Boone indicated Chisholm will play third base when he returns, possibly as soon as Tuesday.

— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) May 31, 2025

For the record, the Yankees are easing him back in. Chisholm taking over the DH role is just a short-term step, as the Yanks are cautious of managing his comeback from the oblique strain.

Addressing the lineup change rumors, Boone shared the plan that Chisholm will be playing third base when he officially returns to the Yankees’ lineup as soon as Tuesday. After the series against the Dodgers, the Yanks are set to go against the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday.

There, we might finally see Chisholm back on the field for good. With him, the Yanks are getting a much-needed defensive upgrade at third base. Until the trade deadline hits, the Yankees are now a bit relieved with Chisholm at third base.

A new challenge at third base for Yankees and Chisholm

Before his injury, Chisholm played in 30 games and faced struggles to find his footing at the plate. He hit .181 and managed to crank seven home runs and drive in 17 runs. Now for his return, he is entering into a new role. Third base isn’t a spot Chisholm has mastered yet. But manager Aaron Boone believes he will be able to do it.

Chisholm opened up about it recently, saying, “Boone really wanted me at third base. I’m a team guy. I’m here to win a ring. I’m not here to fight over positions.”

The 27-year-old Bahamian has been a dynamic infielder. His adaptability has helped him make some standout spots around the third base line. The thing is, his throws from 3B haven’t been very accurate. Moreover, his footwork and instincts need refining too. It was exposed in last year’s World Series. It was a misplay at third on Anthony Volpe’s throw that led to the Yankees’ defensive breakdown in the 5th game.

Now, with DJ LeMahieu locked in at second base and other injury woes in the lineup, Chisholm is willing to give third base another shot as a team-first guy. He is likely to do well as his ability to move around the infield brings flexibility to the table. And that’s something the Yankees need the most at this stretch of the season.

Will Chisholm handle the hot corner effectively? What do you think?

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