With the MLB season entering its decisive stretch, many teams are making adjustments for a playoff push. But New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone is taking a different approach-doubling down on a player under heavy scrutiny: Anthony Volpe.
After showing steady progress in his first two seasons, the third-year shortstop has slumped badly in 2025. Volpe is hitting just .207-his lowest career average-with an 83 OPS+ across 140 games, well below league standards.
The Yankees sit in second place in the AL East at 80-63, trailing the Toronto Blue Jays by two games and holding a razor-thin lead over the Boston Red Sox. With so much at stake, any misstep could be costly, but Boone insists Volpe’s role is safe.
Boone confident in Volpe’s upside
Speaking on the Talkin’ Yanks podcast, Boone expressed faith that Volpe will rebound, dismissing talk of benching him in favor of trade-deadline acquisition José Caballero.
“[I’m] still hoping that Anthony’s best is in front of him,” Boone said, acknowledging the struggles but noting signs of progress. “He’s started to get some traction going. Yeah, we want to get him going offensively.”
As for starting Caballero over Volpe, Boone admitted the thought has crossed his mind. “I think about it every day. I even considered it for today. But I also love the flexibility Caballero gives you off the bench.”
Caballero has been solid since joining New York, hitting .233 with a .765 OPS and nine stolen bases.
Caballero’s role still growing
While Boone remains committed to Volpe, he hinted that Caballero will see more action down the stretch. “He’s gotten some starts and he’ll probably get a start this series, maybe even be a starter next series,” Boone said.
He also emphasized that Caballero will be ready if needed in October. “He’s a good player. I have confidence in him,” Boone added, shutting down suggestions that the Yankees need to test him further before the postseason.
Read the full article here
