The Yankees are exploring ways to keep Jazz Chisholm Jr. while adding Bo Bichette to their infield mix, and it might require some creative positioning.
Joseph Randazzo of Sports Illustrated floated an idea on Sunday that could help the Yankees land both players. The catch? Bichette might not stick at shortstop long-term, but second base belongs to Chisholm, and third base is Ryan McMahon’s spot.
“Keeping Chisholm should be what the Yankees aim for—that and inevitably paying him next year. Since they will not displace McMahon or [Anthony] Volpe, who have not posted a 100 wRC+ season in their respective careers, the only way to keep Chisholm could be sticking him in centerfield.”
It’s not as wild as it sounds. Chisholm played center field with the Marlins and posted four outs above average at the position in 2023. He’s got the athleticism for it.
Here’s where it gets interesting. The Yankees owe center fielder Trent Grisham $22.5 million in 2026 after he accepted their qualifying offer. Moving Chisholm to center would push Grisham to left field, which actually makes sense given his defensive metrics at center were the worst of his career this past season.
Randazzo’s vision? Chisholm in center, Grisham in left, and Aaron Judge holding down right field.
“It would take a bit of awkward configuring, and could take some getting used to, but it would be worth it to have both Chisholm and Bichette in the lineup around the best to do it, Judge.”
Of course, this all falls apart if the Yankees don’t actually sign Bichette. Chisholm would stay put at second base, and Grisham remains in center.
But let’s be honest – having both Bichette and Chisholm in that lineup would give opposing pitchers nightmares. Sometimes the best plans require a little reshuffling.
