MLB free agency: Ranking Jazz Chisholm suitors from optimistic fits to downright dumb choices

A talented but uncertain free agent

Chisholm brings considerable upside: he plays a premium position and recorded a 30-30 season in 2025. Even during a down offensive year, he ranked second among American League second basemen in fWAR.

His recent struggles, tendency to make mistakes and outgoing personality may make teams cautious. The article suggests he could attract strong interest or end up with a one-year prove-it contract.

Yankees weigh familiar risks

The Yankees have seen both sides of Chisholm’s performance. He won a Silver Slugger in 2025 and led AL second basemen in fWAR, but the team also benched him during a crucial stretch of its season.

A return could add power to the lineup, but the contract terms are uncertain. The Yankees did not make him a qualifying offer, while Chisholm has said he wants to stay; the article nevertheless sees reasons for both sides to consider moving on.

Tigers have competing priorities

Detroit could use Chisholm’s power and stolen-base ability. He would also play second base, where Gleyber Torres is set to enter free agency. But the Tigers already have several left-handed hitters, and Hao-Yu Lee is an internal option at second. The article argues the team may need to focus instead on a major need at the top of its starting rotation.

Padres fit, but cost looms

With Ty France headed for free agency, San Diego could move Jake Cronenworth to first base and use Chisholm at second. His left-handed power would also address a lineup need beyond Jackson Merrill.

The challenge is whether the Padres would offer enough, given long-term commitments to Merrill, Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts and Manny Machado. The team also needs multiple starting pitchers.