In Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals, the New York Yankees made a notable change by benching Anthony Volpe, who has faced ongoing criticism this season for defensive issues. José Caballero took over the shortstop position, ending Volpe’s streak of 46 consecutive starts at that spot.

Volpe’s Defensive Woes and Manager’s Response

Anthony Volpe’s defensive performance has been a major point of concern, placing him near the bottom of MLB shortstops in total errors. With 16 errors this season, Volpe ranks second only to Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds, who has 17. This troubling statistic highlights ongoing struggles that have drawn sharp attention from fans and analysts alike.

Despite these difficulties, Yankees manager Aaron Boone has consistently supported Volpe, acknowledging his potential even in tough moments for the team. Boone’s decision to bench Volpe appears to be a temporary move intended to give both the player and team a chance to regroup as the postseason nears.

Volpe’s Early Promise and Career Highlights

Anthony Volpe made his first big league start for the Yankees in 2023 and quickly made history as the first Yankees rookie shortstop—and second rookie shortstop overall—to win a Gold Glove award. However, his offensive numbers have lagged, with a .283 on-base percentage early in the season, marking one of the lowest in MLB. The Yankees have prioritized his defense over his hitting, but this balance now faces a serious test.

Arrival of José Caballero Signals Potential Shift at Shortstop

The Yankees’ midseason trade for José Caballero from the Tampa Bay Rays added a new dimension to the shortstop situation. This acquisition suggests the team may be exploring alternatives, casting uncertainty on Volpe’s future as the everyday starter. While Caballero’s defensive skills are still being assessed, his presence alongside Volpe indicates Boone is searching for answers at a position critical for the team’s pitching and infield defense.

Future Outlook for Volpe and the Yankees’ Infield

As the Yankees push toward the playoffs, the handling of Anthony Volpe’s role remains a key storyline. The move to bench him, even briefly, points to mounting frustration over his defensive struggles and raises questions about manager Boone’s confidence in him as a starting shortstop. Meanwhile, José Caballero’s opportunity offers a potential solution, but the team will need consistent performance at shortstop to solidify their infield and improve their postseason chances.