New York Yankees’ second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. has made headlines not just for his impressive performance, but for how he has transformed into an All-Star player in his first full season with the team. After a significant injury setback earlier in the season, Chisholm emerged stronger and more determined, leading to his selection for the American League All-Star roster.
Chisholm’s rise to prominence is marked by a unique ritual with teammate Aaron Judge. After hitting home runs, the duo celebrates with a distinctive handshake that culminates in a crown gesture, symbolizing their connection to the New York baseball scene. “They call (Judge) the King of New York. They call me the Prince of New York,” Chisholm said, reflecting on the playful titles assigned to them.
In June, Chisholm was awarded a ceremonial regal robe and crown by his teammates, recognizing his “golden at-bats” during the month. This honour had previously been given to Cody Bellinger, but Chisholm has made it his own, donning the crown after key performances and claiming his throne in the clubhouse.
From Injury to All-Star Status
Chisholm’s transformation is particularly striking considering the challenges he faced earlier this season. After suffering a right oblique strain in late April, he weighed just 177 pounds. By June 1, he had gained nearly 13 pounds, reaching 190.2 pounds, a milestone he celebrated with his teammates. “Every ounce counts for Chisholm, who has battled for years to add weight to his wiry frame,” he emphasized.
One of the most significant changes in Chisholm’s regimen has been his hydration strategy. He reports drinking up to eight times more water than before, a shift that has played a crucial role in his physical transformation. Chisholm explained, “I drink a bottle of water before I get out of bed. My stomach always feels full because of the water.”
His performance metrics also paint a compelling picture of his improvement. Chisholm’s batting metrics surged after returning from injury. His weighted runs created plus (wRC+) jumped from 102 to 174 in just a matter of weeks, ranking him among the top hitters in Major League Baseball. His strikeout rate improved significantly, dropping from over 31 percent to just above 23 percent of plate appearances.
Technical Adjustments and Mindset Shifts
Chisholm attributes part of his success to mechanical adjustments in his swing. He increased his average bat speed from 72 mph to 75 mph, while his exit velocity also rose by 3 mph. A change from a leg kick to a toe-tap has allowed him to maintain better control over his swing.
Yankees hitting coach James Rowson noted Chisholm’s natural talent, saying, “His hand speed and quickness remind me of guys like Alfonso Soriano.” Manager Aaron Boone compared Chisholm’s swing to that of legendary player Ken Griffey Jr., highlighting his ability to generate power from a lean frame.
Chisholm also adopted a new approach to his mindset at the plate, with guidance from assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler. He refers to it as a “70 percent mindset,” believing that a less aggressive swing can yield better results. Surprisingly, despite his feeling that he was swinging less hard, his bat speed increased, demonstrating that confidence and control can enhance performance significantly.
Chisholm’s contributions extend beyond his hitting prowess. He ranks sixth among second basemen in defensive metrics, showcasing his well-rounded abilities on the field. His offensive production, marked by 27 combined home runs and stolen bases, positions him as a critical player in the Yankees’ lineup, complementing Judge’s powerful presence.
As he prepares for his first Home Run Derby at Truist Park in Atlanta, Chisholm is eager to make an impact. He aims to win the coveted iced-out chain awarded to the Derby champion, an accessory that would complement his growing collection of accolades.
Reflecting on his journey, Chisholm expressed the significance of playing for a competitive team like the Yankees after previously being with the rebuilding Miami Marlins. “With the Yankees, I feel like every day I’m playing for a reason,” he shared. This shift in environment has driven him to excel, as he aims for career numbers that far exceed his past achievements.
As the 2025 season progresses, Jazz Chisholm Jr. continues to embrace his role within the Yankees, embodying the spirit of a player who has transformed adversity into opportunity. His journey resonates not only with fans but also with aspiring athletes, serving as a reminder of the power of determination, teamwork, and relentless self-improvement.