Jazz Chisholm Jr. has his sights set high, aiming to be among the top earners in MLB next season. The New York Yankees' second baseman is eyeing a $300 million contract, and given this winter's spending spree, he might be looking for even more when he hits free agency after the 2026 season.
In a conversation with NJ.com, Chisholm expressed his desire for a long-term deal with an average annual value around $35 million. "What did I tell you last year?
$300 million?" he said.
"It's probably bigger than that now, probably $35 million. I'm 28.
I want 8-10 years."
If Chisholm lands such a deal, he would become the highest-paid second baseman in MLB history, surpassing Robinson Cano's 10-year, $240 million contract with the Seattle Mariners in 2014. While Chisholm has shown flashes of brilliance, his performance in the ALDS against the Blue Jays highlighted some defensive vulnerabilities.
In Game 4 of the 2025 ALDS, with the Yankees clinging to a 2-1 lead in the seventh inning, a potential double play ball slipped through Chisholm's grasp, allowing the Blue Jays to put runners on the corners. George Springer capitalized, driving in both runners and extending the lead, which eventually led to a series-clinching 5-2 win for Toronto.
Offensively, Chisholm struggled against the Blue Jays, managing just one hit-a solo home run-in 14 at-bats, alongside two walks and two strikeouts. However, this shouldn't overshadow his overall impressive season.
In his first full year with the Yankees, he posted a .242/.332/.481 slash line with 31 home runs and was worth 4.4 fWAR. His defensive contributions were notable too, with a 5.3 defensive fWAR, transitioning from third base to second for 100 games.
As one of the premier second basemen entering free agency, Chisholm is setting the bar high. Other notable names like Nico Hoerner, Gleyber Torres, Brandon Lowe, Luis Arraez, and potentially Ozzie Albies will also be available, but Chisholm is making his intentions clear.
When asked about a potential hometown discount for the Yankees, Chisholm was blunt: "nope." He added, "I'd say no (if the Yankees offered me a $25 million AAV) because I know I can get $35 million somewhere else.
That's $10 million less a year." He even mentioned a preference for the Angels over the Dodgers, stating, "I'd want to go and win by myself.
I'd rather build my roof than go to the Dodgers."
Known for his bold statements, Chisholm is sure to draw attention and likely secure a lucrative deal, though his ambitious asking price might be a challenge to achieve.