Much of the talk yesterday following the Jazz Chisholm Jr. trade focused on where he would fit in the Yankees’ starting lineup. Would he man the center? Second base? Even the hot corner is being considered, where he has never played before.
Further Trade Deadline buys are likely to answer at least some of these specific questions. For the time being, manager Aaron Boone will almost certainly find a space in the Yankees’ normal starting lineup for the newcomer. He’ll be with the team on Sunday night at Fenway Park, batting sixth and playing centerfield.
What about Chisholm’s roster spot? That was a lot more straightforward response, made possible by one of the most disposable players on any club in the league: J.D. Davis.
The Yankees gambled on Davis after the former Mets and Giants infielder was designated for assignment by the rebuilding Athletics in June. It wasn’t the worst decision at the moment because they needed an answer at first base with Anthony Rizzo injured, and while Ben Rice had performed well in the minors, they had no idea how he would handle the big leagues.
Rice’s mashing soon ended the conversation and prospective platoon. Even though he cooled off after hitting three home runs against the Red Sox on July 6th, he was an easy choice at first base. Meanwhile, Davis appeared disoriented, going 1-for-15 with six strikeouts in five games between his debut on June 25th and July 4th. Davis was also sidelined for a short period of time due to stomach sickness, and upon his return to the active roster, he went 1-for-6 with three strikeouts. He was defensively limited and clearly a throwaway piece, thus his sheer presence was annoying.At the very least, he was in line for a DFA when Giancarlo Stanton returned — or a trade acquisition.
So here comes Jazz Chisholm Jr., and out goes J.D. Davis. He appeared like a kind guy, yet he served no use for the 2024 Yankees. Farewell, and see you at the end-of-season Sporcle quiz.
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