The New York Yankees declined to extend a $23.15 million qualifying offer to Jazz Chisholm Jr. this week, allowing the two-time All-Star to enter free agency without any draft-pick compensation attached to his departure. The team now faces a tough choice as multiple analysts predict the 28-year-old infielder will sign with a rival club. In the 2026 season, Chisholm played 137 games, hitting 19 home runs while stealing 41 bases. He posted a .231 average and a .312 on-base percentage while playing for the Bronx. His ability to hit for power and run the bases makes him a valuable asset for any contender looking to add speed.
A Familiar Path to Detroit
The Detroit Tigers have emerged as a top destination for Chisholm as he hits the open market. Analyst Kerry Miller stated “Bleacher Report” that it would not be surprising if Chisholm joined the Tigers. He noted the team stole only 58 bases all season and needs more speed in their lineup. Miller wrote, “The last time the Yankees let a multiple-time All-Star second baseman leave without a qualifying offer, Gleyber Torres joined the Tigers. Perhaps they’ll bring in Chisholm to replace him.” The Tigers already have an internal option in Hao-Yu Lee, but Chisholm offers a proven track record of success. With Gleyber Torres set to become a free agent after two seasons, the path opens for a new star to replace him.
Return to the Diamondbacks
Not everyone agrees that Chisholm will head to the AL Central. Matt Snyder of CBS Sports thinks the 28-year-old might return to the organization that launched his professional baseball career. In a November 4 free-agent prediction, Snyder selected the Arizona Diamondbacks as Chisholm’s next destination. The Diamondbacks have an opening at second base since Snyder predicts the team could trade veteran Ketel Marte this offseason. In 2027, before returning to free agency, Snyder proposed Chisholm might agree to a one-year deal to restore his worth. On July 31, 2019, Arizona traded Chisholm to the Miami Marlins for pitcher Zac Gallen. That trade defined his early career, and a return would complete a full circle for the player.
Grisham Heads to Texas
While Chisholm’s future remains uncertain, the Yankees are also watching another outfielder leave the fold. According to reports, the Houston Astros will sign Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham, a free agent, during this offseason. Grisham is a 34-home run slugger who has shown he can hit for power in the big leagues. Najarian wrote, “But while Grisham will see a sizeable pay cut as a free agent, he may still see interest from other clubs that need an outfielder. One of those teams is the Houston Astros, who, of course, are based in Grisham’s home state of Texas.” Najarian added, according to Heavy.com, “It’s likely that Grisham’s days as a center fielder are over, though. Expect him to be a corner outfielder for any team that looks to sign him, including the Astros.” The move would bring Grisham back to his home state of Texas for the final years of his career.
