All That Jazz: How Yankees’ Chisholm is making noise on and off the field in New York. Jazz Chisholm embraces his dual identity as both a baseball player and a budding hip-hop artist. During an interview at Yankee Stadium, he frequently paused to play his own tracks, showcasing his commitment to his musical passion. This level of enthusiasm for music in the clubhouse is rare among athletes, making Chisholm’s approach stand out.
“These are songs I like,” Chisholm explained, emphasizing that his music reflects his true self. When asked if these tracks were part of a personal playlist, he exclaimed, “No, this is me! This is me singing!” The realization that the voice echoing through the clubhouse belonged to the Yankees’ starting third baseman was surprising.
Chisholm identifies as a rapper, using the name Prince Jazz. He collaborates with his friend and former Marlins teammate, Nick Gordon, to create music that serves as an outlet beyond baseball. While recording at a studio affiliated with Roc Nation, founded by Jay-Z, or from home, Chisholm finds joy in rapping about his life outside of the sport.
As teammates began to filter into the clubhouse, Chisholm revealed that many were unaware of his musical side. “They don’t know. Nope,” he said with a mischievous smile, indicating that only the clubhouse attendants were in on the secret. This playful dynamic adds a layer of camaraderie to the team atmosphere.
Chisholm’s music career began as a hobby, allowing him to reset after games. “I go home and I forget about baseball,” he stated, highlighting the importance of separating his identity as a player from his artistic pursuits. His ability to balance both worlds is a testament to his versatility.
Despite his impressive performance on the field—becoming the first Yankee to hit seven home runs in his first 12 games—Chisholm’s musical talents remain largely hidden from his teammates. A recent poll among the Yankees revealed their surprise at learning about his dual career, with Aaron Judge humorously questioning, “What’s his artist name?”
Chisholm’s impact on the Yankees extends beyond music. Since joining the team, he has demonstrated significant skill, batting .300 with a 1.092 OPS. He is among a select group of players with at least 20 home runs and 25 stolen bases this season, proving his worth as a key player in the Yankees’ lineup.
His transition to third base has also been noteworthy. Although he faced challenges, including a fielding error, he has shown promise in this new role. This adaptability has been crucial for the Yankees, who needed a spark in their lineup.
Judge emphasized the importance of being true to oneself in the clubhouse. He reassured Chisholm that he was brought in for a reason: “We need you to come in here and be yourself.” This supportive environment allows Chisholm to thrive both as an athlete and an artist.
While his music remains a secret within the clubhouse, Chisholm’s contributions on the field are undeniable. As he continues to make waves with his performance, the Yankees are hopeful that his artistic side will eventually shine through, adding another layer to his already dynamic persona.
“Keep listening,” said Chisholm, hinting at more music to come. As the season progresses, fans and teammates alike will be eager to see how he balances his dual passions.
