Anthony Volpe’s Shoulder Surgery Ends Excuses for Yankees Shortstop Future
The New York Yankees are preparing for a significant change as Anthony Volpe, the team’s starting shortstop for the past three seasons, will be sidelined due to shoulder surgery. This marks the first time since Isiah Kiner-Falefa took the position in 2022 that the Yankees will have a different player starting at shortstop on Opening Day 2026.
Anthony Volpe’s Shoulder Surgery: A Turning Point for the Yankees
Volpe underwent offseason surgery to repair a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder. This injury originally occurred on May 3 when he dove for a ball, resulting in a noticeable “pop” and significant discomfort throughout the season. Despite this, Volpe continued to play, which led to an underwhelming performance:
- 83 wRC+, indicating below-average offensive performance
- 19 errors, tying for the lead in the American League
- A career-low fWAR of 1.0
Injury Impact and Recovery Timeline
At a recent end-of-season conference, Yankees management revealed the details of Volpe’s surgery and recovery expectations. The initial recovery timeline suggests that he may be ready for a minor league rehab assignment around the time of the next season’s Opening Day. However, he will not be able to swing a bat for four months or dive for six months following the procedure.
Orthopedic surgeon Brian Schulz emphasized the typical healing process, noting that the tissue in the shoulder usually takes three months to recover. An additional four to eight weeks is needed to regain strength for swinging and diving.
Analyzing Volpe’s Performance Decline
The Yankees are divided on whether Volpe’s shoulder injury significantly affected his performance. Manager Aaron Boone expressed doubt that the injury was a major factor, while General Manager Brian Cashman suggested otherwise. The situation remains complex. Volpe showed improvement briefly after two cortisone injections, posting a .923 OPS following the second shot but ultimately finishing the season in a slump.
Volpe’s decline in performance coincided with a drop in his bat speed from 72.8 mph in May to 71.7 mph in June. Statistical adjustments indicated changes in his swing mechanics, possibly a subconscious response to pain, complicating the evaluation of his injury’s impact on his game.
Looking Ahead: The Yankees’ Shortstop Dilemma
With Volpe recovering from surgery, the Yankees are currently eyeing José Caballero as the likely Opening Day shortstop. The uncertainty surrounding Volpe’s future adds pressure as the Yankees navigate their strategy moving forward. There now appear to be no excuses remaining regarding Volpe’s performance and potential.
Given the circumstances, the Yankees await to see if Volpe can return to form after surgery. His recovery will be pivotal for both his career and the Yankees’ lineup in upcoming seasons.
