If we look at the ice-cold figures, Anthony Volpe of the New York Yankees hasn’t really improved at the plate despite a brilliant start. Prior to Tuesday’s game against the Seattle Mariners, he has an OPS of.664, down from his rookie season of.666 the previous year.
It’s unfortunate because during the first two or three weeks of the 2024 campaign, he appeared to be a real breakout star. After that, he fell down to earth, and the Yankees need more offensive production from him despite his excellent baserunning and defense.
Talkin’ Yanks reports that manager Aaron Boone has chosen to start a different player in Volpe’s stead when the team plays late on Tuesday night in Seattle for the series opener.
The podcast’s official X account announced, “Aaron Boone tells us that Oswaldo Cabrera will start at shortstop tonight, with Anthony Volpe getting the night off.”
Volpe is receiving a break from the Yankees.
In addition to providing Volpe with much-needed rest, the Yankees captain is keeping Cabrera engaged. Regarding the shortstop, in 385 plate appearances since the beginning of June, he has managed a pitiful.223/.255/.330 with a.584 OPS.
Had it not been for his exceptional defense at a premium position and his wheels, along with his youthful age and exceptional prospect background, the Yankees most likely would have benched him by now.
The Yankees need Volpe to step up at the plate and start drawing fly balls if they are to play at their best. His wRC+ of 87 indicates that he is a hitter who has a lot of space for improvement.
The Yankees are giving Volpe a break.
Not only is the Yankees skipper giving Volpe much-needed respite, but he’s also keeping Cabrera involved. As for the shortstop, since the beginning of June, he has managed a miserable in 385 plate appearances.223/.255/.330 and an OPS of.584.
The Yankees probably would have benched him by now if it weren’t for his wheels, excellent defense at a premium position, youth, and outstanding prospect pedigree.
To play at their best, the Yankees need Volpe to step up at the plate and begin drawing fly balls. He is a batter who has a lot of room for improvement, as seen by his wRC+ of 87.
