Yankees Face Lineup Decisions as Jazz Chisholm Jr. Nears Return

The New York Yankees are nearing a critical juncture as Jazz Chisholm Jr. prepares to return from a right thumb sprain, potentially as soon as Tuesday's doubleheader against the Rays. This imminent return necessitates difficult decisions for manager Aaron Boone regarding the team's lineup and player utilization.

Since Chisholm's injury on September 8, utility player Anthony Volpe has seen significant playing time at second base. In the 10 games following his recall, Volpe started at the position nine times, batting .286 with a .753 OPS and four stolen bases. He has also begun to see some action at third base, adding another layer to the Yankees' strategic considerations.

Boone acknowledged the upcoming roster challenges, stating, "First things first, getting Jazz back and then we’ll figure it out as the week unfolds how I want to play it." The team has experienced inconsistent offensive production from its third basemen this season, particularly in recent weeks. Ryan McMahon has struggled since returning from his own thumb sprain, hitting just .150 since September 1. José Caballero has been starting at third base over McMahon against right-handed pitching, while Amed Rosario has often filled the role against lefties.

Another potential lineup adjustment could involve platooning Volpe and Chisholm at second base. Chisholm, a left-handed hitter, has struggled against lefties with a .221 batting average and a .654 OPS. However, prior to his injury, Chisholm had been on a hot streak, hitting .391 with a 1.028 OPS in his last 15 games, making it difficult to reduce his playing time.

The decisions surrounding Volpe's role are part of broader roster considerations as the Yankees approach the postseason. Boone expressed optimism about having these "tough decisions to make" when setting playoff rosters, viewing it as a positive problem to have.

In other team news, pitcher Clarke Schmidt is scheduled to see a doctor this week after experiencing biceps cramping during warm-ups on Sunday, which prevented him from pitching. Schmidt recently returned from Tommy John surgery and is vying for a role in the playoff bullpen. Left-handed pitcher Ryan Weathers is also a candidate for the bullpen, but he must first face hitters this week to prove his readiness for postseason action, having not pitched since August 22 due to a left forearm flexor strain.