Recently, Derek Jeter sent a clear message about Anthony Volpe: “You have to keep a positive attitude. You have to keep working”. For a 25-year-old shortstop, receiving advice from the legendary Yankees captain does not go unnoticed. Jeter’s voice, however, contrasts with that of some Mets veterans, who did not hesitate to point out the young man’s difficulties.
Bobby Valentine’s dig
In the run-up to the Mets’ alumni classic, Bobby Valentine recalled the security that John Olerud exuded in the infield. Without mentioning him directly, he compared that comfort to the discomfort of Volpe, who is going through a critical moment: he leads the American League with 19 errors, has just two hits in his last 17 at-bats and is dealing with a shoulder problem that earned him a cortisone injection.
Boone clarifies the situation
Manager Aaron Boone explained that Volpe was not relegated to the bench because of poor performance, but because of his shoulder injury. The shortstop did not participate in the series against Boston, but is expected to reappear against the Twins. Even so, concern about his defensive errors remains, which puts him in the eye of the storm at a decisive moment in his career.
Trusted voices
Despite the pressure, there is no shortage of support from the organization. Brian Cashman, Yankees president, expressed his confidence in Volpe by stating that “he is someone we can trust and believe in,” stressing that 2025 should be seen as an atypical year. CC Sabathia also defended the youngster, calling for patience and remembering that comparisons to Derek Jeter are unfair.
Volpe has a Golden Glove in 2023, proof of his defensive ability. However, his present is complicated and demands a reaction. Cases like that of Rafael Devers, who managed to transform his defensive weaknesses into strengths, show that the path is possible. Now, the big question is whether Volpe can regain his confidence and once again be the prospect the Yankees need in the infield.
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