Why Moving Jazz Chisholm Jr. to CF is a Bad Idea

Jazz Chisholm Jr. sits in the dugout Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire

Just under a month ago, it was revealed that the Miami Marlins had acquired 2022 American League batting champion Luis Arráez from the Minnesota Twins for three players, highlighted by Pablo López. As a result, the fish plan on using All-Star second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. as a center fielder. In the past, radical changes in position like this have not worked, and Marlins fans should be concerned for the following reasons:

A Lack of Experience

Jazz has never played a game in the Majors or Minors at CF. Historically, Infielders have had a tough time transitioning into the outfield. Take, for example, former Marlin Dee Strange-Gordon. When Strange-Gordon was traded from the Fish to Seattle, he was converted into a center fielder. In 57 games in center, Strange-Gordon had a .958 FPCT% with six errors. Not only that, his fielding as a whole declined after the position switch. Forcing Jazz into a similar change could result in similar results.

Jazz needs to strengthen his arm

According to Statcast, Jazz Chisholm had an average throw speed of 81 MPH in 2022, which is the league average for a second baseman. He also ranks in the 23rd percentile in arm strength. However, when placed with other center fielders, he would have the weakest arm, behind Akil Baddoo (81.2 MPH) and Albert Almora Jr. (81.6 MPH). This would usually be no issue, but the position change for Jazz was announced only one month before spring training, and the lack of time given could mean Jazz’s arm might not be up to the center fielder’s average of 90 MPH.

Other Marlins Infielders have played in the outfield before

Other Marlins infielders have played in the outfield before Jazz. The aforementioned Luis Arráez has played some left field in his career, Garrett Cooper has played some right field, and even Jon Berti has played all three outfield positions. Overall, there are options other than forcing Jazz into the outfield, where he hasn’t played before.

William Henderson

Aspiring Sports journalist and noted Tigers Twitter Member. Featured on Woodward Sports. More than likely at Comerica Park.

One thought on “Why Moving Jazz Chisholm Jr. to CF is a Bad Idea”

  1. Moving to the outfield didn’t work out for Mickey Mantle, Robin Yount, Craig Biggio, or Paul Molitor either, just to name a few. Oh, wait. They’re all in the Hall of Fame.

Leave a Reply to JerryCancel reply

Cubs Man of Steele Leaves Game

Cubs Man of Steele Leaves Game

Steele hits the turf with and leave game with suspected leg injury

Read More
Los Angeles Angels Opening Day Takeaways

Los Angeles Angels Opening Day Takeaways

The Los Angeles Angels dropped the season Opener to the Baltimore Orioles 11-3. What could Angels fans takeaway from today’s tough loss?

Read More
Series Preview: Chicago Cubs vs Texas Rangers 3/28-3/31

Series Preview: Chicago Cubs vs Texas Rangers 3/28-3/31

Opening Series preview for the Cubs three game set against the Texas Rangers.

Read More