Yankees' Jazz Chisholm split feels inevitable after $23 million decision

The New York Yankees appear increasingly likely to move on from Jazz Chisholm Jr. after deciding against extending him a qualifying offer ahead of the 2027 season.

New York made a different decision regarding closer David Bednar , offering him a one-year, $23.15 million qualifying offer on Monday.

The move gives the Yankees an opportunity to retain an important bullpen piece, but Chisholm's omission suggests the organization isn't convinced he's worth a similar commitment.

Chisholm entered 2026 with considerable expectations after recording 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases the previous season. However, his production declined considerably, finishing the campaign with a .231 batting average, 19 homers and a .711 OPS across 137 games.

Although he stole a career-high 41 bases, his inconsistent offensive performances made it difficult for the Yankees to justify keeping him at a potentially expensive price.

The two-time All-Star has demonstrated plenty of talent throughout his career, but consistency has remained a concern. His occasional defensive lapses and questionable on-field decisions have also attracted criticism, creating additional uncertainty about his long-term future in New York.

Chisholm hasn't hidden his desire to remain with the Yankees. Following the team's postseason disappointment, he expressed his affection for the organization, making it clear that leaving the Bronx wasn't his preferred outcome.

Nevertheless, the Yankees have other priorities, and questions surrounding his consistency and postseason performances could make a reunion difficult.

Yankees could pursue Teruaki Sato as Chisholm's replacement

Former MLB executive Jim Bowden has also questioned whether Chisholm is the type of player the Yankees should build around, suggesting the organization would benefit from younger, more dependable personalities.

Bowden pointed to the additional distractions surrounding certain players, arguing that teams already face enough challenges without having to manage unnecessary clubhouse concerns.

His comments suggest Chisholm's situation could involve more than simply evaluating his offensive production.

Meanwhile, New York has another potential infield problem involving Ryan McMahon . The third baseman hasn't delivered the offensive improvement the Yankees hoped for after acquiring him, finishing 2026 with a .213 average, seven home runs and a .636 OPS.

Consequently, Japanese superstar Teruaki Sato could become an attractive offseason target.

The Hanshin Tigers standout is coming off an extraordinary 2026 campaign, winning the Central League Triple Crown with a .306 batting average, 39 home runs and 106 RBIs. His impressive offensive production has made him one of the most intriguing international players potentially available to MLB clubs.

Sato's left-handed power could be particularly appealing at Yankee Stadium, where the short right-field porch offers an inviting target for left-handed hitters. Adding another dangerous power hitter would also take some pressure off Aaron Judge.

However, his defensive position remains something to consider. Although primarily a third baseman in Japan, he has experience playing in the outfield and could eventually move elsewhere in the infield.

Landing Sato wouldn't automatically solve every problem facing the Yankees, but his offensive potential would represent a significant addition.

If Chisholm ultimately departs, pursuing Sato could help reshape New York's lineup and provide another powerful weapon alongside Judge .