The first game back from the All-Star break is expected to spark full fresh energy, but for the Yankees, it did the total opposite. Facing the Braves, New York was already in a 7-0 hole by the fourth inning. In the sixth, things got worse, not on the scoreboard, but in effort. Jazz Chisholm Jr. grounded out to second with two outs, but rather than sprinting, he casually jogged to first, finishing the inning with a whimper. Even if the out was unavoidable, the lack of hustle became the defining picture of the night.
It was not only an incident, either. Chisholm Jr’s poor effort was just the tip of the iceberg in what has been a miserable stretch. He ended the night 0-for-4 with a strikeout, continuing a post-break fall. Days earlier, he struggled in the All-Star Game, going 0-for-3, and in the Home Run Derby, he hit only three home runs before a swift exit. Add it all up, and fans are rightfully wondering where the power and leadership are, particularly from such a star who is expected to ignite the offense.
The backlash was swift and sharp. Yankees fans did not sit back online, blowing up Chisholm for mailing it in during a game where effort was the bare minimum. However, it was not just the fanbase calling him out. Former Red Sox player and MLB vet Fryedaddy/Frito (@shegone03) went off on social media: “I know this lack of effort doesn’t bother the NEW @MLB fans who only care if they win their $5 parlay but it does bother us retired @MLBPAA guys who fought for the future generations to make more money. It’s also a horrible example for the kids who idolize you!” His words carried weight, especially coming from someone who has lived the grind.
I know this lack of effort doesn’t bother the NEW @MLB fans who only care if they win their $5 parlay but it does bother us retired @MLBPAA guys who fought for the future generations to make more money. It’s also a horrible example for the kids who idolize you! #shegone @Yankees… pic.twitter.com/2UCqCWiDzx
— Fryedaddy/Frito (@shegone03) July 19, 2025
For Chisholm Jr., this is not just about one lazy play; it is about perception and accountability. With the Yankees entering the second half on shaky ground, the team needs leaders who are ready to grind, not coast. Former pros, fans, and analysts alike are now watching the star’s upcoming move closely, and with criticism piling up, Boone has some explaining to do—not just for the loss, however, for the thought process it highlighted.
However, the Yankees’ current frustrations go far beyond one star’s lack of hustle. The team is going through an enhanced crisis with its pitching depth, and the timing could not be worse.
Yankees rotation depth tested as Ryan Yarbrough’s return is delayed
The Yankees’ pitching issues just got deeper. While the offense of the team takes heat for sluggish energy, the rotation has its own mountain to climb. Ryan Yarbrough, thought to be a steady depth alternative, is progressing more slowly than expected from a right oblique strain. Placed on the injured list back on June 22, he has yet to begin a rehab assignment and has also not thrown off a field, despite continuing a throwing program. What was once a short-term issue is now dragging on into a powerful long-term problem.
That is a roar for a rotation already fighting setbacks. Cam Schlittler recently skipped a start due to bicep soreness (thankfully, his MRI came back clean), and Max Fried is treating blister issues. With Carlos Carrasco gone and the bullpen struggling, posting a negative 0.4 WAR since June, Yarbrough’s absence is intensified. He posted a 3.90 ERA over 55.1 innings this year, filling in as both a reliever and starter with solid control as well as flexibility.
In reply, the front office is scrambling. GM Brian Cashman has reportedly made pitching a top trade deadline priority. The Yankees are now actively monitoring shoulders like Mitch Keller and relievers such as Jhoan Duran and Carlos Estevez. With so many question marks, any reinforcements would be highly welcome in the Bronx.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – JUNE 07: Jazz Chisholm Jr. #2 of the Miami Marlins hits a grand slam in the second inning against the Washington Nationals at loanDepot park on June 07, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
As the Yankees fall into the second half, the limelight is not just on Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s hustle or lack thereof, but on the wider challenges facing the franchise. With injuries piling up and rotation depth stretched thinly short, urgency is rising in the Bronx. Whether through internal accountability or bold trade moves, the Yankees need to react swiftly. Stay tuned for more updates on the tale.
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