"Jazz Chisholm Jr. was never going to work in Miami" - Ex-Marlins exec details why Aaron Judge & Yankees stars key to unlocking All-Star's potential
Jazz Chisholm Jr. was traded to the New York Yankees ahead of the trade deadline in July and has been spectacular. In 21 games, he has hit .293/.333/.659 with nine home runs. In 101 games with the Miami Marlins, he had 13 home runs.
He has looked like a completely different player after joining forces with Aaron Judge and Juan Soto in the Bronx. The change in scenery must have been exactly what he needed.
However, former Marlins president David Samson believes the pressure to perform in New York is a reason for his success. Chisholm is surrounded by great players who will keep him in check, via the Fish On First podcast.
"Jazz [Chisholm Jr.] was never going to work in Miami, and I think if there is one city, and one team where Jazz has a chance to reach his potential, it is with the Yankees," - said Samson.
Not many teams are expected to perform like the Bronx Bombers every year. Their fanbase holds their players to a higher standard to perform, the same as the player base.
"Giancarlo [Stanton], Aaron [Judge], and Anthony [Rizzo] are not going to put up with somebody who is hitting .250 and someone who is thinking they are someone they are not," - said Samson.
Players like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton will keep Chisholm in check. It seems to be working just fine now as Chisholm has become a sparkplug for the AL-leading squad.
David Sampson reveals teams were worried about Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s character
Jazz Chisholm Jr.'s market could have been a lot bigger. He has experience playing both the outfield and the infield and has a solid bat to back that up.
However, some teams were worried about his character. This was a reason that many teams passed up on him when he was made available ahead of the trade deadline.
"Other teams just didn't want to put up with his baggage, and believe me, that was known in the industry. He was not well-appreciated or liked within the Marlins organization" - said Samson.
Samson reveals things were rocky between Miami and Chisholm, which ultimately led to his trade. They were able to get something in return for their star during a time when they did not need him.
Now, he has a shot at going deep into the postseason this year.