Jazz Chisholm Jr. brings elite speed and power, but his time in New York faces an uncertain future. The Yankees’ second baseman posted a career-high 31 home runs in 2025, yet his consistency remains a major question mark. Fox Sports reports that his 1.7 wins above replacement (bWAR) and 97 OPS+ in 2026 likely cost him a long-term deal. Teams will pay for his talent, but they will not commit to a massive contract without proof of stability.
A Fresh Start in Washington
The Washington Nationals offer Chisholm a clear path to rebuild his value. Washington finished third in MLB in runs with 821 and slugged at .423 last season, showing they need more punch up the middle. While Nasim Nuñez led the National League with 49 stolen bases, he lacks the power Chisholm provides. The Nationals could use Chisholm to open 2027 as their starting second baseman and help fill the void left by trading Luis GarcÃa Jr. and Curtis Mead. Chisholm’s move gives him a chance to play either middle infield spot, depending on how the team handles shortstop CJ Abrams.
The Reds Need an Offensive Boost
With only 75 wins, Cincinnati finished last in the National League Central and urgently needs improvement. MLB hits totaled 1,231 for the Reds, who also recorded the league’s lowest on-base percentage. Chisholm would give them a capable, impact left-handed hitter to balance the lineup. He would likely start at second base, pushing Matt McLain to the bench. McLain has been the primary second baseman for two years but hit a combined .204 during that stretch. Chisholm’s two-time All-Star status would be a massive upgrade for Terry Francona’s order.
The market for Chisholm will depend on how teams view his 37.3 stolen bases per season since 2024. He showed he can hit for power, with 80 RBIs in 2025, a year in which he also posted 4.1 wins above replacement. Under Aaron Boone, the Yankees made the postseason eight times over nine years, yet they must determine whether Chisholm belongs in their future. ESPN notes that free agents will come off the board quickly before the league shuts down on Dec. 1.
