Former New York Yankees outfielder Clint Frazier offered crucial advice to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who has recently faced a batting slump and intense media scrutiny. Frazier emphasized that Volpe should disregard the constant media noise and focus on playing with freedom to regain his confidence and succeed with the Yankees.

Volpe has become the center of attention as fans and critics closely watch his recent performance struggles. Frazier suggested that Volpe step away from social media, which can amplify pressure and distract players from their game. Drawing from his experience navigating New York’s harsh sports media environment, Frazier understands the impact such scrutiny can have on young athletes.

Guidance to Volpe: Avoid Social Media and Embrace Being Yourself

When asked about advice for Volpe, Frazier insisted that getting off social media would help protect Volpe’s mental space and reduce unnecessary stress. Volpe is filling the shoes of past Yankees shortstops, including legends like Derek Jeter and Didi Gregorius, which only increases the expectations placed on him.

“…If I could give him any advice, it would be like, ‘Brother, we got to get off social media.’…Like I know that Volpe’s in a tough situation because like Didi Gregorius was there. (Derek) Jeter was obviously there. Like there’s a lot of people that there’s a lot of big shoes that he’s having to fill.” —Clint Frazier, Former MLB Outfielder

Volpe himself acknowledged the media’s tough stance, pointing out that he has become an easy target as reporters seek new stories amidst dwindling options.

“I think he’s just one of these guys bro, that the media is just picking on because they’re running out of people to go after,” Anthony Volpe said on Foul Territory (from 22:57 onwards).

Frazier urged Volpe not to burden himself with trying to emulate his predecessors but instead to play freely and trust in his own abilities. His advice was to focus on the game and avoid becoming overwhelmed by expectations or outside distractions.

He encouraged Volpe to be a “diamond in the rough” and maintain his individuality, reminding him that the pressure can be self-imposed and unnecessary.

Frazier Reflects on His Own Struggles with Yankees Media and Lack of Veteran Support

Clint Frazier’s own career in New York was marked by challenges, especially surrounding a controversy about wearing Mickey Mantle’s No. 7 jersey. The situation was exacerbated by media speculation and misunderstanding. Frazier shared that he was unfamiliar with Mantle’s number when the controversy erupted, which only added frustration during a difficult time in his career.

“I genuinely did not watch baseball growing up as a kid…like Ryan Howard was the only guy that I really focused on…So when I come in week one, they’re asking me if I asked Mickey Mantle’s number to be unretired so I could wear it. And I am sitting thinking like, I don’t even know what number this guy wears.” —Clint Frazier, Former MLB Outfielder

Frazier also spoke about the absence of guidance from veteran Yankees players while he was navigating that difficult phase. Though some players spoke to him, he never experienced a consistent mentor who provided ongoing support or advice.

“Maybe they did, maybe they didn’t, but I can’t remember a specific moment where somebody came up to me and was like ‘Hey brother, you need to go this direction instead of going that direction.’…I never really had somebody that actually took me under their wing and stuck with me the whole time.” —Clint Frazier, Former MLB Outfielder

Comparing Experiences: Yankees Versus White Sox

When reflecting on his MLB career, Frazier contrasted his time with the Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. He expressed that, despite the prestige of playing in New York, he enjoyed a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere with the White Sox, suggesting the pressure in New York was often overwhelming.

His experience highlights the intense scrutiny players face in New York, especially young talents like Anthony Volpe, who are expected to live up to historic legacies while managing a relentless media presence.

Implications for Volpe’s Future with the Yankees

Frazier’s advice stresses the importance of mental resilience for Volpe as he works through his batting difficulties. Ignoring media distractions and focusing on personal strengths could enable Volpe to develop confidence and establish his own identity within the Yankees franchise. With the legacy of players like Jeter looming large, Volpe’s ability to forge his own path will be key to his long-term success.

The significance of Frazier’s messages extends beyond Volpe, serving as a cautionary note about the challenges young athletes face in high-profile sports markets. How Volpe responds to this guidance and navigates the pressures will likely shape his role with the Yankees in coming seasons.