Yankees' Chisholm Prioritizes MVP Over Money

28-year-old infielder focused on individual achievement rather than financial gains in 2026 season.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jazz Chisholm Jr., the New York Yankees infielder, has revealed that his primary goal for the 2026 season is to win the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, rather than chasing a higher salary. Despite recently agreeing to a one-year, $10.2 million contract, Chisholm stated that personal achievement is more important than money at this stage of his career.

Why it matters

Chisholm's declaration highlights his ambition to reach the pinnacle of individual success in Major League Baseball, even in the face of competition from his high-profile teammate, Aaron Judge, a three-time MVP award winner. This pursuit of the MVP title could have significant implications for the Yankees' lineup and their chances of success in the upcoming season.

The details

Chisholm, who is entering his 11th year in the majors, had a career-best season in 2025, joining the 30-30 club with 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases. However, to outshine Judge, who led the league in batting average, on-base percentage, hits, and RBIs in 2025, Chisholm will need to achieve even greater offensive numbers.

  • Chisholm agreed to a one-year, $10.2 million contract with the Yankees to avoid arbitration.
  • Chisholm's current deal with the Yankees extends through the 2026 season, after which he will become a free agent.
  • The 2026 season will open on March 25, when the Yankees face the San Francisco Giants.

The players

Jazz Chisholm Jr.

A 28-year-old infielder for the New York Yankees who is focused on winning the MVP award in the 2026 season, rather than chasing a higher salary.

Aaron Judge

A teammate of Chisholm's on the New York Yankees, who has won the American League MVP Award three times, including back-to-back wins in 2025 and 2022.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I can make as much money as I want, but I don't have the MVP, I'm not going to be satisfied. That's more important than that.”

— Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Yankees Videos)

What’s next

The earliest opportunity for Jazz Chisholm Jr. to prove himself as a serious MVP contender will come on Opening Day, March 25, when the Yankees face off against the San Francisco Giants.

The takeaway

Chisholm's focus on winning the MVP award over financial gains highlights his ambition to cement his legacy in the game, even in the face of competition from a high-profile teammate like Aaron Judge. This pursuit could have significant implications for the Yankees' lineup and their chances of success in the upcoming season.