New York Yankees are entering a critical stage of their 2025 season, but one of their most notable young stars, Anthony Volpe, continues to be at the center of concern. Once heralded as a cornerstone shortstop, Volpe’s performance has dipped significantly, leaving manager Aaron Boone with a difficult decision to make.
Anthony Volpe’s struggles raise questions
Volpe, who burst onto the scene as an asset in his first two major league seasons, has seen his numbers take a dramatic hit this year. Through 141 games, the 24-year-old shortstop is batting just .206, a glaring decline that has shifted him from being a dependable piece of the lineup to a liability.
The timing couldn’t be worse for the Yankees, who are looking to lock down momentum before the postseason. Fans and analysts alike have questioned whether Aaron Boone will finally move on from Anthony Volpe as the team’s everyday shortstop.
Injury revelation adds context
Adding another layer to the situation, it was revealed that Volpe has been dealing with a shoulder injury throughout the season. This detail sheds light on his underwhelming production and explains his recent absence from the field. For nearly a week, Volpe has not played, with Jose Caballero stepping into his role.
Aaron Boone addressed the situation briefly, leaving room for speculation about what comes next. “We’ll do what’s best every day,” Boone said, per the New York Post’s Dan Martin.
Jose Caballero seizing the opportunity
While Anthony Volpe has been sidelined, Caballero has made the most of his opportunity. In limited action, he has posted an impressive .333 batting average and showcased solid defensive skills. His sharp play has only intensified the debate around Volpe’s starting role.
With Caballero thriving and the postseason looming, the Yankees may face a scenario where Volpe is left off the roster entirely. Boone’s decision to stick with what helps the team win could tip the balance away from the struggling shortstop.
The shadow of last year’s blunder
Complicating matters further is the lingering memory of Anthony Volpe’s costly mistake in last year’s World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. That miscue remains fresh for both fans and management, making Aaron Boone’s current decision even more crucial.
As the Yankees look ahead to October baseball, the question of whether Volpe will regain his spot or watch from the sidelines looms large. Boone’s stance suggests that loyalty to the player may not outweigh the immediate needs of a team chasing a championship.