The New York Yankees entered Tuesday with a massive setback as Jazz Chisholm’s MRI reports revealed a UCL injury in his left elbow. Jazz was removed from Monday’s series opener against the White Sox after he hurt his elbow while sliding down home on Anthony Volpe’s single to score a run.
While the initial X-rays were negative, MRI scan results suggest that Jazz Chisholm is likely to miss the remainder of the 2024 season. The New York Yankees will take a call on his IL stint after consultation with expert doctors. Having said that, in a scenario where the Yanks lose Chisholm, here are a few immediate reinforcement options.
DJ LeMahieu
New York Yankees veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu is potentially the wisest solution for third base. If it weren’t for his career-worst offensive slump, the Yanks wouldn’t have traded Jazz Chisholm Jr at the trade deadline. Moreover, lately, LeMahieu has been witnessing a breakout run, which began with 6 RBI night, followed by a walk-off hit. Hence, if Chisholm lands on IL, DJ LeMahieu can move to third base, with prospect Ben Rice taking over first base duties until Anthony Rizzo returns from IL following arm fracture recovery.
Oswaldo Cabrera
As Jazz Chisholm Jr was undergoing an MRI scan on Tuesday, utility player Oswaldo Cabrera replaced him at third in the series finale against the White Sox. He hit a single and a line drive in a multi-hit outing. Moreover, across 21 games played this season, Cabrera is hitting .245 with three home runs and a .667 OPS. Cabrera is extremely versatile and can split time at third and first base for the rest of the season. His defensive game is significantly strong, which makes Cabrera an ideal replacement candidate for Jazz Chisholm Jr.
Oswald Peraza
Notably, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Oswald Pereza is very much in the mix for a potential call-up from minor league to replace Jazz Chisholm Jr at infield. Peraza is already on the 40-man roster and is hitting .304 with a .936 OPS over his last 33 games with the Triple-A RailRiders. Peraza missed out on his chance to replace LeMahieu at the start of the season due to a shoulder injury. However, Jazz Chisholm’s injury could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the top infield prospect.
Jon Berti/Jorbit Vivas
Third baseman Jon Berti is still in IL as he suffered a setback in his rehab from calf strain sustained in May. However, Berti is close to a return and if Jazz Chisholm Jr is ruled out for the season, Berti is worth a shot for the Yankees. On the other hand, Jorbit Vivas is also another viable minor league option.
Amed Rosario
LA Dodgers recently designated infielder Amed Rosario for assignment. Rosario had been on the Yankees’ trade radar earlier. He is interestingly hitting .305 this season and can be a perfect fit at third base for the rest of the season. Rosario has significant major league experience, which will essentially benefit his smooth transition to the Bronx.
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