In the Bronx, where pinstripes are sewn with history and every inning is full of excitement, the New York Yankees are in a situation that most clubs would want to be in. With a record of 30-20, the Yankees are at the top of the AL East. They have a great season from Aaron Judge and a strong lineup from top to bottom. The Yankees’ motor keeps roaring, but a problem that has been causing a constant bug is the hot corner issue. However, it looks like it’s also getting fixed as the clubhouse prepares for the $5.85 million infielder to return. But, they must figure out where to put him.

The infielder, who was traded to the team from the Miami Marlins at the 2024 trade deadline. He made an immediate impression by hitting four homers in his first three games, a franchise record. Even though he had never played third base before, he immediately got used to it and showed off his athleticism and good arm. He hasn’t played third since the World Series because he hurt his right oblique and didn’t get any practice there during spring training. Does it ring a bell?

The player in the talk is Jazz Chisholm Jr. Yes, he is making a return. The Bronx is happy, but his return comes with a question, particularly with his position. But why? During his absence, DJ LeMahieu has stepped up and shown a comeback that reminds everyone of his time as an All-Star. LeMahieu has shown improved strength and rhythm at the plate since returning from a calf strain that kept him from playing until later in the season. He has given the Yankees much-needed stability in the infield. He had his first multi-hit game and home run since July 2024 in a recent game against the Mets. This could be a sign that he is getting back to his old self. With this, a dilemma also arises in the dugout. But Chisholm looks calm.

When asked if he might move to third base when he returned, Chisholm just shrugged and said, “It’s whatever. I already did it.” Chisholm and LeMahieu were asked if they would change positions. Both said yes, but neither jumped at the chance. LeMahieu said,  “Yeah, I feel really comfortable right now [at second base]. I’m sure we’ll deal with it when we get there.”  This kind of polite answer tells you everything and nothing simultaneously.

Both players say the Yankees haven’t even “broached the topic” yet. And what did the management say? Manager Aaron Boone replied calmly, “We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.” Amidst all this, another prospect is getting ready.

Yankees’ infield puzzle

The Yankees’ infield situation has become a complicated puzzle, with many players arriving for a few spots. The fact that Jazz Chisholm Jr. returns from the IL makes this problem even harder to solve. Chisholm, who has previously played both second and third base, may need to change again to fit into the current lineup.

At the same time, Ben Rice’s rise as a dependable hitter has led to talks about what position he should play on defense. Rice’s chances of becoming a DH may decrease when Giancarlo Stanton returns. Thus, he may need to switch positions to keep his bat in order. Travis Chapman, the infield coach, has been working with Rice to help him become more versatile by having him take ground balls at different infield spots, like third base. Chapman said, “He took ground balls at second, short, third, first. Just getting his feet moving. I like putting him in a position where he’s got to be more athletic with his feet”

After Oswaldo Cabrera’s injury ended his season, the Yankees need a reliable 3B even more. Oswald Peraza, who has been playing third base, hasn’t been able to hit well, with a .164 batting average and a .239 on-base percentage. If Chisholm goes back to his favorite position at second, this situation might allow Rice to take on a bigger role at third base.

Manager Aaron Boone has said that Rice’s infield drills aren’t that important and are “just for fun.” However, the Yankees’ current roster structure makes it seem like these experiments might be more than practice. The squad must discover the best way to maintain offensive productivity and defensive consistency as players come and go due to injury. Rice’s capacity to change and Chisholm’s ability to do many things could be significant in figuring out the Yankees’ infield problem.