New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe has publicly refuted a report suggesting he refused to play second base while in Triple-A this season, vehemently labeling the claim as “B.S.” The report has since been retracted, but Volpe expressed his frustration with the narrative, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the team’s success.
Volpe Addresses Retracted Report
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Volpe stated, “It couldn’t be further from the truth.” He clarified that his willingness to play any position necessary to aid the Yankees was clearly communicated to manager Aaron Boone and the team’s leadership. “I think it’s just kind of B.S., honestly, because I’d hope my teammates in here — I’ve played with them for three-plus years — I hope they know my character and that I’d literally do anything to help the team win. Literally anything,” Volpe asserted.
The young shortstop felt the need to defend himself against a narrative he believes is entirely unfounded. “So, I think just the narrative and what it tries to say about me, I feel like I’m defending myself over something that literally didn’t happen,” he added.
Timeline of Position and Injury
Volpe, 25, explained that the Yankees had not approached him about a potential position change until Jose Caballero, who initially started the season at shortstop, returned from the injured list in May. Volpe himself had been undergoing rehabilitation following surgery for a torn labrum in his shoulder. During his recovery, his focus remained on preparing to play shortstop.
This was the plan during his rehab assignment. However, on May 4, he was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. This move was necessitated by Caballero’s strong performance at the start of the season. Volpe’s assignment to Triple-A occurred just as he was set to come off the injured list.
Offseason Plans and Team Communication
Volpe also detailed conversations held during the offseason. He proactively checked in with the Yankees, inquiring about expectations for the upcoming season. At that time, his rehab regimen permitted only ground ball practice, as he was not yet cleared to throw across the diamond. According to Volpe, the consistent message from the Yankees was to be prepared to resume his role as the team’s shortstop.
General Manager Brian Cashman had also indicated that the initial plan was for Volpe to reclaim the shortstop position. However, Caballero’s unexpected strong play altered the team’s immediate plans. Circumstances shifted again when Caballero himself landed on the injured list, creating an opening that Volpe naturally filled upon his return.
Volpe’s Commitment to the Team
During the period he was being optioned to Triple-A, Volpe recalled telling manager Aaron Boone, “I’d play catcher, I’d do literally whatever the team needed.” He reiterated, “And that’s the truth behind the story. That’s why the fact that what was said was said is catching me so off-guard because there was literally zero of that.”
Volpe expressed that he has “no problem” with the concept of position changes if they benefit the team. His ultimate goal is clear: “I want to be here and I want to help the team win the World Series. That’s literally all I want.”
Managerial Support for Volpe
Manager Aaron Boone echoed Volpe’s sentiments, offering strong support for his shortstop. “I know he would do anything. Volpe’s character and team-first [mindset] is beyond reproach. He’s as good as it gets,” Boone stated. He further praised Volpe’s resilience, noting, “He’s been through a lot and he’s handled everything with toughness, with grace, with work ethic and with team-first in mind. He’s always been that way.”
Volpe’s Career Overview
Selected by the Yankees as a first-round pick in 2019 out of Delbarton High School in New Jersey, Volpe has shown flashes of potential over parts of four seasons. However, consistency at the plate has been an ongoing challenge. His career statistics reflect this, with a.224 batting average,.287 on-base percentage, and.375 slugging percentage, resulting in a.662 OPS across 513 games played.
Last season, Volpe committed 19 errors at shortstop, a figure that led Major League Baseball. This season, he has recorded three errors in 36 starts at the position.
