Jazz Chisholm Jr., the Miami Marlins outfielder, received disappointing news on his 26th birthday as he lost the first salary arbitration decision of the year. Chisholm will now be paid $2,625,000, which falls short of his $2.9 million request. The ruling was made by arbitrators Margaret Brogan, Jeanne Vonhof, and Scott Buchheit on Thursday, following a day of arguments from both sides.
Last year, Chisholm showcased his skills by hitting .250 with 19 home runs, 51 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases in 25 attempts. He played a pivotal role for the Marlins, transitioning from second base and shortstop to center field. Unfortunately, his performance suffered in the NL Wild Card Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, going 0 for 8 with four strikeouts as the Marlins were swept.
During the 2022 season, Chisholm excelled, earning an All-Star status. He batted .254 with 14 home runs, 45 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases in 17 attempts. However, his season was cut short due to a back injury, and he didn't play after June 28.
Chisholm, who had a salary of $749,500 last year, became eligible for arbitration for the first time. The Marlins will also have upcoming arbitration hearings with second baseman Luis Arraez ($12 million vs. $10.6 million) and left-hander Tanner Scott ($5.7 million vs. $5.15 million). Arraez emerged victorious in his arbitration case last year, receiving $6.1 million instead of the Marlins' proposed $5 million. He followed up with another impressive performance, winning his second consecutive batting title while playing for the Minnesota Twins in 2022.
Chisholm is the second player this year to proceed to a salary arbitration hearing. Recently, All-Star outfielder Austin Hays requested $6.3 million while the Baltimore Orioles countered with $5.85 million. The decision on that case is expected to be announced next week.
Another arbitration case took place on Thursday involving Los Angeles Angels left-hander José Suarez. Suarez requested a salary of $1.35 million, while the Angels argued for $925,000. The decision on this case is expected on Friday. Last year, Suarez struggled with a 1-3 record and an 8.29 ERA in seven starts and four relief appearances, earning $750,000. He also endured a prolonged injury hiatus from May 7 to September 13 due to a strained left shoulder.
Overall, there are 18 players scheduled for arbitration hearings, which will continue until February 16. These hearings play a crucial role in determining players' salaries and can often result in significant financial gains for those who present convincing arguments.
