In the high-stakes opening of the AL Wild Card Series, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone made a decision that didn't sit well with everyone. Jazz Chisholm Jr., the team's dynamic second baseman, found himself on the bench for Game 1 against the Boston Red Sox. The choice came down to matchups, Boone explained later, opting instead for Amed Rosario at the position. But Chisholm, fresh off a season where he joined the rare 30-30 club with 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases, wasn't hiding his disappointment. Turning his back to reporters after the 3-1 loss, he kept it short: "That's how I look at it."
Indeed, the frustration was palpable. Chisholm had been a key piece for the Yankees since his midseason trade from Miami, bringing speed and power to an infield that had seen its share of shuffling. Remember those whispers last summer about pursuing Colorado's Ryan McMahon to solidify things at third? Well, Chisholm ended up there for stretches, starting 28 straight games before shifting back to second. Yet here he was, sidelined in the playoffs, watching from the dugout as Boston took the early lead. Critics might say it was a risky move, especially with Chisholm's All-Star form in 2025—his second such nod after 2022.
However, Boone stuck to his guns, emphasizing the lefty-heavy Red Sox pitching. And it wasn't just Chisholm; young catcher Ben Rice also sat out. The benching fueled talk around the clubhouse, with some wondering if it reflected deeper lineup woes. But Game 2 brought a quick turnaround. Chisholm returned to the starting nine alongside Rice, and the Yankees responded with a crucial win, keeping their postseason hopes alive. Chisholm contributed solidly, proving his value in that season-saving effort against a heated rival.
Moreover, this episode highlights the fine line managers walk in October. Boone's strategy paid off in the end, but the initial backlash lingers. As the series heads to a decisive Game 3, one can't help but ponder how such choices define a team's fate.