Yankees Shift Anthony Volpe to Second Base Drills Amid Infield Depth Changes

The New York Yankees have begun shifting Anthony Volpe to second base drills, as manager Aaron Boone revealed to reporters on Friday. Despite José Caballero’s return from the injured list, Volpe remains on the big league roster following the team’s decision to option rookie outfielder Spencer Jones to the minors.

Caballero’s absence was brief due to a fracture in his right middle finger. During his time on the IL, Volpe handled shortstop duties for over a week and a half. While Boone initially labeled Caballero as the starting shortstop, he now says he’ll “make that decision every night.” Caballero started Friday’s game against Nick Martinez to open a key three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Volpe has spent over 4000 innings at shortstop at the MLB level and has only played second base twice in A-ball five years ago. However, given the ease of transition for shortstops to other infield positions, the Yankees see potential in Volpe’s ability to fill either middle infield role. The team has no plans to move him to third base.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. remains the primary second baseman, starting in 48 of 52 games at the position this season. Amed Rosario has started the other four games, primarily to counter left-handed pitching. Chisholm is hitting .239/.317/.372 this season, which is a better offensive output than Volpe’s career line through his first three MLB seasons.

Volpe has shown promise since Caballero’s injury, hitting .167 with five hits in eight games. He collected two doubles and drew seven walks in 30 plate appearances. The Yankees have kept him in the big league fold and will likely continue to use him in a semi-regular role.

The Yankees have options to rotate Caballero, Volpe, and Chisholm depending on matchups. Caballero, who leads the team with 13 stolen bases and is hitting .259/.320/.400, has proven his versatility and remains a key piece. Meanwhile, Ryan McMahon has struggled at third base, making Volpe’s development more relevant.

The Yankees will continue to evaluate Volpe’s progress at second base as they prepare for a pivotal matchup with the Rays. The series begins Friday night in Tampa Bay.