The New York Yankees’ Anthony Volpe faced a challenging season at shortstop, struggling in his role but retaining the team’s support throughout. Following the end of the season, Volpe underwent shoulder surgery, raising concerns that he may miss the beginning of the upcoming year.
Manager Aaron Boone has recently shared that Volpe will not be able to hit for approximately four months and could require up to six months of recovery before engaging in activities that involve diving. This situation opens the door for José Caballero, who is poised to take over as the starting shortstop when the Yankees kick off the season. Caballero has garnered fans’ support to replace Volpe, especially after his impactful performance following his acquisition at the trade deadline. During his stint with the Yankees, he led the league in stolen bases and achieved an impressive .828 OPS.
As Volpe recovers, Caballero’s opportunity to shine remains significant, though speculation lingers about his future role with the team. New York Daily News’ Gary Phillips points out that even if Caballero excels in Volpe’s absence, the Yankees may remain hesitant to solidify his place as the starter permanently. Boone has previously characterized Caballero as a “10th man,” emphasizing that his agility and speed may be better utilized strategically coming off the bench.
Volpe’s performance during the last season included a disappointing .212 batting average, paired with a league-worst 19 errors in the field. While his struggles are notable, it’s possible that his shoulder issues contributed to his on-field difficulties. In contrast, Caballero has demonstrated consistent offensive capabilities and a dynamic presence on the bases, raising an important question about the Yankees’ decision-making when Volpe returns to health.
Despite the challenges, this situation presents an opportunity for Caballero to cement his value to the team. Caballero’s performance may influence how the Yankees manage their roster going forward, as they weigh the potential against Volpe’s need for redemption once he resumes play. Overall, the Yankees find themselves in a complex position, balancing the need for immediate performance with the long-term development of their players.