The year of last chance for Anthony Volpe

Anthony Volpe is not a bad baseball player, far from it. But let's just say he has tested the patience of New York Yankees fans more than once since arriving in the Bronx. Last year, his .212 batting average was simply not good enough, and it was quite alarming to see his WAR cut in half, due in part to his very erratic defensive play.

That's why Volpe's future as the Bombers' shortstop was called into question when the team traded for Jose Caballero at the trade deadline.

And that will still be the case in 2026. Even though Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who was on WFAN Sports Radio with Craig Carton, believes his protégé will bounce back, it's possible that at some point, the New York team will cut ties with Volpe.

I still think Anthony is going to be a top-tier shortstop in this league. Not everyone's path is linear. We always want it to be, and that can be difficult, especially in New York, where you have to find your way. So, I think he's going to become that player, and I want it to be here, but bringing in guys like Caballero, I think it's good for competition.

When asked directly if there was a timeline for Volpe to establish himself as a top-tier shortstop, Boone was clear: “Absolutely.”

Aaron Boone on Anthony Volpe's leash heading into his fourth season:@craigcartonlive @CMacWFAN pic.twitter.com/6Ffo1JQwvE

— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) February 2, 2026

The door therefore remains open for Volpe to pursue his career elsewhere if he doesn't get the job done at some point.

The 24-year-old's one-year contract with the team could very well be his last. The Yankees had to pay him a mere $3.5 million to avoid arbitration, but it's not as if his performance warrants a long-term contract at this point. It's up to him to prove otherwise.

This content was created with the help of AI.