The New York Yankees have started 2026 largely how they fared in 2025. At 9-8, nothing is necessarily going wrong for the Yankees, but they sport the fourth-worst batting average among all MLB teams. While Anthony Volpe hasn’t historically been a consistent hitter, they could sure use a potentially improved and developed version of him right now.
Jose Caballero has struggled mightily in Volpe’s place as the Yankees’ starting shortstop. Caballero is hitting .171 with a .471 OPS. Because Aaron Judge, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Cody Bellinger haven’t been able to fully get going yet, the offense is not in good shape. They could use Volpe’s bat right now, plus his Gold Glove ability in the field.
Thankfully, Volpe’s return appears to be on the horizon. This week, Volpe made his first rehab start as he works his way back from left shoulder surgery. Ideally, it would have gone swimmingly, but that wasn’t the case. It’s not his fault, though.
Anthony Volpe strikes out twice, goes hitless against Zack Wheeler, but feels good overall
Volpe’s first rehab start wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. He had to go up against Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, who’s been a Cy Young contender for the past half-decade. Wheeler is coming back from a blood clot in his shoulder that required surgery late last season.
Wheeler appears to be in form, as he got the better of Volpe during his start. Volpe went 0-for-2 and struck out twice against Wheeler. Still, Volpe was in great spirits following the game: “I feel amazing. It’s a big milestone, big checkpoint. Felt good to get back out there.“
Getting reps against an elite pitcher is crucial for Volpe, regardless of the outcome. The best news is that he felt healthy during and after the game. Volpe is likely still a few weeks away from returning, but he’s ramping up quickly.
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