UPDATE: The New York Yankees have made a significant roster change, benching shortstop Anthony Volpe for the second time in a week as they face the Detroit Tigers today, September 27, 2023. This decision comes as the team is in a critical stretch, competing for a playoff spot with just 17 games left in the regular season.
Volpe was seen working on his hitting skills at Yankee Stadium just hours before the game, demonstrating his commitment in the face of mounting pressure. However, the Yankees have opted to start Jose Caballero at shortstop instead. Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasized the urgency of their current situation, stating, “We’re in day-to-day mode… I have a decision to make every day with the lineup.”
The Yankees are not just fighting for a playoff berth; they are also navigating Volpe’s struggles. Once a promising rookie who batted .286 during last year’s postseason, Volpe is currently experiencing a dismal season performance, hitting just .206 with 140 strikeouts in 141 games. His 81 wRC+ ranks him among the bottom of qualified hitters, raising concerns about his ability to impact games positively as the team heads into the postseason.
Boone remains hopeful for Volpe’s turnaround: “Whatever tough decision I think that is, I’ll make it. I hope he can get it going to a point where he is that guy.” Despite past successes, including 19 home runs and 70 RBIs this season, Volpe’s performance has drawn criticism from fans, leading to booing at Yankee Stadium.
Adding to the drama, Volpe’s defensive skills have also taken a hit this season. He was a Gold Glove finalist last year but now ranks 23rd out of 24 qualifying shortstops with a dismal -8 Outs Above Average. In contrast, Caballero has emerged as a reliable alternative, leading the majors with 43 steals this season.
The Yankees’ management, including general manager Brian Cashman, has been supportive of Volpe, but the team’s recent strategy indicates a shift toward a more performance-driven approach. Boone stated, “Just feel like [Caballero] deserves to play some… it’s been a tough stretch offensively here.”
As the Yankees prepare for a critical series against the Tigers, all eyes will be on Volpe’s potential return to the lineup. The team is faced with the challenge of making the playoffs while fostering the development of their young star.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching Volpe’s next steps and the implications for the Yankees’ postseason hopes. Will he find his rhythm, or will the Yankees continue to rely on Caballero as they push for the playoffs? Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.