Spring training optimism is nothing new in the Bronx, but this year, the confidence inside the clubhouse certainly seems different. Jazz Chisholm Jr. said plenty earlier this week as he spoke about the New York Yankees’ outlook heading into the new season, making it clear the roster believes last year’s goals are still well within reach.
“We're running it back because, at the halfway point, we thought we built a team that was going to go to the World Series,” he said, per SNY. “We still believe that, wholeheartedly. I don't see a problem with running it back with four MVPs on your team.”
Earlier in the offseason, Brian Cashman made it known that he doesn’t think the team is running it back, which makes Chisholm’s comments even more interesting.
“It's not the same roster,” Cashman said Wednesday. “I disagree it's the same team running it back. ... Not afraid to run with the quality and talented roster of players that we do have. I think we've been consistent with that throughout the entire winter. I've been openly willing to challenge anybody that [says] we don't have a championship-caliber roster and team.”
That internal belief stems from how good the Yankees looked during stretches of last year. When healthy and clicking offensively, the team was really good.
Rather than changing the roster, New York continued with its core, hoping for improved health and some of the young guys getting better.
Chisholm, who brought both defensive versatility and 30-plus home runs, seems to truly believe that this team is a good spot.
However, while team goals are more important, Chisholm also didn’t shy away from his personal hopes this year, either.
“Basically, the same personal goals I have every season. Go out there, win MVP, and go win a World Series,” he said. “I can make as much money as I want, but if I don't have the MVP, I'm not going to be satisfied. That's more important than that.”
I think the Yankees are in a pretty good spot, depending on health. We’ll see how they look in pressure moments, but there’s no reason for them not to win the AL if they’re healthy.