In a surprising move, the New York Yankees benched shortstop Anthony Volpe for Sunday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals, marking the first time in 47 games that Volpe hasn't been in the starting lineup. Jose Caballero took his place, raising questions about Volpe's future with the team.
Volpe's Recent Struggles
Volpe's recent performance has been a cause for concern. He went 0-for-9 with four strikeouts in the first two games of the series against the Cardinals. His season average has dropped to .215, and his on-base percentage sits at .283. While he has contributed 25 doubles, four triples, 18 home runs, 65 RBIs, and 15 steals, he also has a concerning 115 strikeouts.
Defensively, Volpe's performance has also declined. Once considered a Gold Glove-caliber player, he's struggled with errors and inconsistencies, leading to the Yankees giving Caballero a chance to prove himself.
Caballero's Opportunity
Jose Caballero, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays just before the trade deadline, offers the Yankees versatility and speed. In limited action, he's already made an impact, going 5-for-5 in stolen base attempts. While it's unlikely he'll permanently replace Volpe, this opportunity allows him to showcase his abilities and potentially earn more playing time down the stretch.
Caballero's Impact
Caballero's performance over the weekend, where he went 5-11 with two multi-hit games, two walks, an RBI, and four stolen bases, has further fueled the debate about Volpe's role. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively provides the Yankees with a valuable alternative.
What Does This Mean for Volpe?
While this benching may be a wake-up call for Volpe, it's important to remember his potential. He's still a young player with a lot to offer. However, he needs to address his inconsistencies and improve his defensive game to solidify his position as the Yankees' everyday shortstop. The competition from Caballero could be the catalyst he needs to elevate his performance.
The Yankees' decision to give Caballero a start highlights the importance of having depth and options. It also sends a clear message to Volpe: performance matters, and no one's spot is guaranteed.