Brandon Lowe emerges as a prime target for the New York Yankees to replace Jazz Chisholm Jr., who faces free agency following consecutive disappointing playoff finishes.
- Brandon Lowe’s proven power profile and left-handed swing position him as a potential target for the Yankees.
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. enters free agency with an uncertain future after a down year and reduced postseason playing time.
- The Yankees must restructure their infield depth chart before the 2027 season as front-office decisions approach.
The New York Yankees face critical roster adjustments following back-to-back disappointing playoff performances after reaching the World Series, paired with numerous injuries through 2026. Second base and third base stand out as primary positions requiring attention this winter.
“This is where Cashman needs to get creative and swing a surprise blockbuster deal for a third baseman, much like he did with Donaldson (even if that failed to work out),” Joe Najarian wrote for Sports Illustrated, noting that internal options like Jose Caballero struggled in 2026 and Anthony Volpe is still learning the position.
Meanwhile, Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s tenure at second base appears to be ending. “As the Yankees look to retool their roster for the 2027 season, there’s a massive hole they will need to fill,” Phillip Martinez wrote for SNY, adding that Chisholm will explore free agency and likely will not return to the Bronx.
Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors identified Brandon Lowe as a logical replacement for Chisholm in the Yankees’ middle infield. Lowe finished the final year of a $24 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2026, delivering 35 home runs and earning recognition as a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger finalist.
“Maybe the Pirates’ 82 wins, their most since 2018, will embolden them to spend, though Lowe’s contract could feature both a big annual salary and a good amount of years,” Zach Buckley wrote for Bleacher Report, predicting that Pittsburgh’s front office might pass on those demands, opening the door for New York.
Chisholm’s turbulent stint in New York culminated in reduced postseason action and visible fan frustration at Yankee Stadium after he fouled out as a pinch hitter in the bottom of the seventh inning during an elimination game. Connor Byrne of MLB Trade Rumors said that despite a down year at the plate and struggles in four playoff appearances, Chisholm would prefer to continue his career in pinstripes.
Focus and discipline were topics of discussion for Chisholm since his days with the Miami Marlins. “When Jazz was in Miami, Derek Jeter was there as the owner and Don Mattingly was the manager,” Bob Klapisch wrote for NJ.com, recalling how two franchise icons “met with Chisholm on repeated occasions and begged him to get his head straight.”
In contrast, Lowe offers a more consistent offensive presence and defensive stability that could address the Yankees’ infield questions ahead of 2027.
Disclaimer: The fantasy and market insights provided are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial or betting advice.
