UPDATE: In a shocking move, the New York Yankees have benched shortstop Anthony Volpe for the critical finale against the Boston Red Sox on July 31, 2023. This decision comes as Volpe battles a staggering 1-for-28 slump and leads the majors with 17 errors this season. With the Yankees fighting to avoid a four-game sweep, newly acquired utility player Jose Caballero takes the starting role at shortstop.
Volpe’s performance has raised concerns, as he is hitting just .208, with 18 home runs and 65 RBIs over 128 games this season. This marks only the fifth time this year that Volpe has not been in the starting lineup. Manager Aaron Boone explained the decision, stating, “Just scuffling a little bit offensively here over the last 10 days, and having Caballero gives you that real utility presence that can go play anywhere.”
Volpe’s struggles have been evident, as he went hitless in 10 at-bats during the first three games of the series against Boston, including a disappointing performance in Saturday’s 12-1 loss. The young shortstop committed a throwing error during a seventh-run ninth inning by the Red Sox, further compounding his difficulties.
At just 24 years old, Volpe’s promising career is under scrutiny. After starting the season with a .249 batting average through his first 69 games, he has plummeted to a dismal .153 since June 14. Yankees fans have voiced their frustrations, calling for a reassessment of his role on the team.
Boone defended Volpe, saying, “I think he handles it quite well. Just a young player that works his tail off, super competitive, and is trying to find that next level in his game offensively.” He emphasized Volpe’s resilience and competitive spirit.
Caballero, who was acquired from Tampa Bay at the trade deadline, is hitting .320 in his last 14 games with the Yankees and has demonstrated versatility by playing multiple positions, including second base and right field. His performance could provide the spark New York needs as they currently sit six games behind first-place Toronto in the AL East and just 1.5 games back of the second-place Red Sox.
As the Yankees strive to turn their season around, this benching marks a pivotal moment for Volpe and the team. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how this decision impacts the Yankees’ playoff hopes, especially with a tightly bunched race for the three AL wild cards.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation as the Yankees aim to regain their footing against their fierce rivals.
