Anthony Volpe's performance with the New York Yankees is under intense scrutiny, with some suggesting a significant roster change might be necessary. Despite manager Aaron Boone's unwavering support, Volpe's struggles at shortstop, highlighted by 13 errors – tied for the third-most in the majors – are raising concerns.
A recent game saw Volpe misplay a ball, drawing boos from the Yankee Stadium crowd. While Boone defends Volpe as a "top shortstop," criticism has been mounting, particularly after a recent "Talkin’ Yanks" podcast. Volpe acknowledges Boone's support, stating he wishes his manager didn't have to defend him so often.
While Volpe showed promise with a .292 average, a 1.099 OPS, and four home runs over a seven-game stretch, his inconsistency has resurfaced. This streakiness has become a defining characteristic of his career.
Maddon's Bold Suggestion
Former manager Joe Maddon has suggested a controversial solution: sending Volpe down to the minor leagues. Maddon believes the Yankees should acquire a veteran shortstop as a temporary replacement to allow Volpe to regain his confidence and fundamentals.
Confidence at an All-Time Low?
Maddon argues that Volpe's confidence is at an all-time low and that a stint in the minors could help him "reset" mentally. He points to a similar move by the Mets with Francisco Alvarez as a potential success story.
Volpe's current batting average of .145 this month, combined with his defensive struggles, has fueled the debate. While the Yankees have tolerated his offensive inconsistency due to his Gold Glove defense, the errors are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Maddon emphasizes the need for Volpe to slow the game down, regain his fundamentals, and breathe again. Whether the Yankees will heed Maddon's advice remains to be seen, but the pressure is on Volpe to turn things around quickly.