The New York Yankees saw Anthony Volpe struggle at shortstop all season, but stuck by him. He had surgery on his shoulder after the season ended and could miss the start of the year.
Manager Aaron Boone recently revealed that Volpe will not be able to hit for about four months, and is likely going to need six months before he can dive on the shoulder. Boone noted that Volpe could be starting a rehab assignment when the Yankees start the season. That would likely make José Caballero the opening day shortstop.
Fans wanted Caballero to replace Volpe this season amid Volpe’s struggles. The Yankees acquired him at the trade deadline, and he became a key contributor down the stretch. He led the league in stolen bases and had an .828 OPS with the Yankees.
Caballero made the most of his opportunities with the Yankees and will have a chance to contribute if Volpe misses time. However, even if he performs well, the Yankees may not hand him the keys to the starting job. New York Daily News’ Gary Phillips predicted the Yankees would bench Caballero again when Volpe returns.
“Caballero is the internal favorite to play shortstop while Volpe misses the start of the season,” wrote Phillips. “However, Aaron Boone has referred to the majors’ stolen base leader, acquired from the Rays before the deadline, as a ’10th man’ whose speed and versatility offer strategic value off the bench. Don’t be surprised if Caballero ends up back on the pine once Volpe is healthy.”
Volpe slashed .212/.272/.391 this season. The former Gold Glover also had a league-leading 19 errors. Perhaps his shoulder issues had an impact, but his offensive metrics have never been great. Meanwhile, Caballero has been a better player offensively and brings electricity to the basepaths. Benching him to once again give Volpe a shot could end up being a terrible decision.
More MLB: Yankees Expected to Bring Back Injured Starter Despite Finances
