Jazz Chisholm Jr. has never been one to shy away from the spotlight or a little drama. And when it comes to the Kansas City Royals, he’s embraced a new identity entirely: the villain.
Beef Carried From 2024 NLDS
What started during the 2024 American League Division Series has now developed into one of the more intriguing personal rivalries in baseball. After the Yankees and Royals clashed in last year’s ALDS, Chisholm Jr. didn’t hold back, calling the Royals “lucky” after their Game 2 win and accusing Maikel Garcia of unsportsmanlike behavior toward teammate Anthony Volpe.
The comments didn’t sit well with Kansas City or its clubhouse, and ever since, Chisholm Jr.’s name has stood out when the Yankees and Royals meet. The most recent story was brought to life by this week’s series in Kansas City. Chisholm Jr. stole third base with the Yankees ahead 5-1 in Tuesday’s game. Once again at the center of the plot, Garcia made a powerful tag as the catcher’s throw trailed high toward his head.
Despite the fact that the ball was loose, Chisholm Jr. later expressed his displeasure with the play’s violence. He made his feelings clear before leaving the game shortly after due to a neck complaint.
The tension on the field told its own story. Chisholm Jr., now firmly locked into this quiet feud, added fuel to the fire with his demeanor, confidence, and presence every time he took the field.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. is fully embracing the villain role in Kansas City😳#Yankees pic.twitter.com/eg34G5bs36
— Fireside Yankees (@FiresideYankees) June 11, 2025
Following the incident, Chisholm Jr. didn’t backtrack or play it safe. Instead, he leaned into the role he’s been assigned. When asked about the ongoing tension and his reputation in this growing rivalry, he offered a simple yet revealing response.
“I kinda like it,” said Chisholm Jr.
The Culture that Chisholm Jr. Brings
That sums up Chisholm Jr.: fearless, unrepentant, and unconcerned with what other people think of him. Chisholm Jr. is a member of a newer generation of athletes who don’t hesitate to be bold in a time when athletes tend to use their words carefully. Instead of avoiding the story that has accompanied him since last fall, he has incorporated it into his strategy.
When it matters most, the Yankees have undoubtedly supported him. New York sealed the series with victories on Tuesday and Wednesday, and they have a chance to sweep going into Thursday’s conclusion. Chisholm Jr. has undoubtedly contributed to setting the tone, even though the scoreboard doesn’t fully convey the situation.
In Kansas City, he may not be loved, but he’s not looking to be. Chisholm Jr. isn’t chasing approval. He’s chasing wins. And for now, he and the Yankees have the last word.