Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe started his sophomore season strong, but things have gone off the rails since and he’s looking rough enough that some in the Bronx have been wondering if he could use some more minor-league seasoning.
Yankees president Brian Cashman said a demotion for the 23-year-old former top prospect hasn’t even been discussed and noted that while Volpe doesn’t have much Triple-A experience, he’s learning an incredibly tough craft in the majors.
“It (hitting) is tough, arguably the toughest thing in all sports,” Cashman told the New York Post. “I understand that. We understand that. His ebbs and flows are obviously what they are. But our belief in the player and that he’s a foundational piece are also there. We think he’s the solution and not part of the current problem. I understand it is fair to ask any and all questions, but I am here to reinforce that our belief in him is steadfast.”
Volpe’s Performance Stats:
Last season, Volpe played 159 games as a rookie with stats showing .209/.283/.383 (80 OPS+), 23 doubles, four triples, 21 homers, 60 RBI, 62 runs, 24 steals, and a WAR of 3.3. This year so far? In just 124 games: .247/.297/.383 (89 OPS+), with similar doubles but increased triples at seven, fewer homers at eleven , along with slightly less RBIs at forty-six.
Fans might be thinking: Is this just a sophomore slump or something more concerning?
Despite some growth areas like batting average improvement this year compared to last year’s numbers—his power has taken a hit though. Defensively solid yet not as stellar as before; still good but room for betterment.
Remember his blazing start? Manager Aaron Boone even moved him up to leadoff ahead of MVP candidates Juan Soto and Aaron Judge! Through those first fifteen games—he was on fire hitting .382/.477/.564! But then reality set back in; over next hundred-nine games: only .231/.273/.362… ouch! And recently? Just four hits outta forty-two tries with fifteen strikeouts plus three walks!
If Yankees weren’t contenders right now—it’d be easy peasy keeping Volpe playing every day letting him grow at MLB level itself without worries about standings or playoffs positioning—but alas—they’re clinging onto AL East lead by mere half-game margin while eyeing best record overall too which matters loads come playoff time!
The longer Volpe struggles—the louder questions get asked—but for now—Cashman’s sticking by his decision standing firm behind young shortstop believing brighter days lie ahead despite current woes.
What do you think? Should they give him more time or consider other options?
