With just nine days to go until the New York Yankees begin their 2026 MLB season in San Francisco, Anthony Volpe has broken his silence on his fitness. Although optimism surrounds his words, the reality of his recovery from left shoulder surgery suggests that the Bronx Bombers will have to start the campaign without their stellar shortstop.
Anthony Volpe’s long process to recover
In an interview with YES Network’s Meredith Marakovits, Volpe detailed the complex rehabilitation path he has followed after undergoing surgery for a partial tear of the labrum in his non-throwing shoulder.
“I guess it’s kind of a process, but I’m learning along the way,” admitted the 24-year-old.
I feel pretty good about where I’m at… dealing with that tug-of-war between them holding me back or me feeling really good
Despite his desire to play, Volpe confirmed that he has not yet overcome all the necessary stages to receive competitive medical clearance: “There are still stages of control that I am not yet performing.”
Anthony Volpe’s big goal
The news confirms what many feared: Volpe will not be 100% for Opening Day on March 25 at Oracle Park. The Yankees seem determined not to risk the future of their young star, relying on Jose Caballero to cover shortstop while Volpe completes his “natural progression” facing pitchers in live at-bats.
After a 2025 season in which his numbers were affected by the physical ailment (he hit .212 with 19 home runs), the shortstop is clear that his return is not for personal statistics, but for the collective glory that eluded New York last year.
“I just want a ring. That’s basically it,” Volpe said, making it clear that his focus is to be the best version of himself to get the Yankees back to the Fall Classic.
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