TAMPA, Fla. — Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s Artistic Identity
Jazz Chisholm Jr. considers himself an artist, and understanding the Yankees second baseman’s seamless transition to New York—and his discontent during his three years with the Miami Marlins—requires a comprehensive view of his identity beyond baseball.
A Multifaceted Talents and Experiences
Chisholm is not merely a baseball player; he’s also a painter, rapper, and fashion designer. He believes that ignoring these aspects of his personality is a betrayal, reminiscent of the jealousy he faced from veteran players during his initial weeks in Major League Baseball.
The Hazing Incident
Upon arriving in the majors in 2020, Chisholm brought with him 20 pairs of custom-designed cleats that showcased his interests, ranging from Oreo cookies to the anime “Black Clover.” However, Marlins infielder Miguel Rojas viewed him as a cocky rookie in need of discipline, infamously cutting up one pair of his cleats and ruining another by pouring milk into them. This act of “childish” hazing sparked several conflicts, leading to a team meeting under then-manager Don Mattingly aimed at restoring harmony.
Embracing Individuality
Chisholm, 27, chose isolation over confrontation and vowed to embrace his uniqueness, wearing more expressive clothing and challenging the unwritten rules of baseball, which he perceives as biased against Black players. “Baseball is a White sport,” he stated, adding that the unwritten rules often shun the individuality and self-expression of Black athletes.
A Warm Reception with the Yankees
Contrary to his experiences with the Marlins, Chisholm has found acceptance with the Yankees, even after the team lifted its longstanding facial hair policy. Manager Aaron Boone has recognized the importance of allowing Chisholm to be himself, which became evident soon after the Yankees traded for him. Notably, during his first game, he hit a home run and celebrated by mimicking Boone’s earlier dance moves, creating a positive bond with his new manager.
Transitioning to Acceptance
Chisholm grew up in Nassau, raised by his grandparents, who instilled in him a passion for baseball from a young age. His experience as the only Black kid in his neighborhood was devoid of feelings of exclusion. However, his early professional experiences were starkly different. He felt that the treatment he received from certain veterans was influenced by racial bias, and he often retreated to solitary pursuits like anime, struggling to find a sense of belonging within the Marlins organization.
A Promising Future with the Yankees
Now thriving within the Yankees’ organization, Chisholm has bonded with his teammates and feels more connected than ever. He has engaged in social activities with various players and is optimistic about his future, aware that he is crucial to the team’s success moving forward. He remains resolute in his commitment to authenticity, understanding that while he may face criticism, he will not compromise who he is to please others. Chisholm is determined to leave his mark in New York before hitting free agency in 2027.
