Yankees Shuffle Shortstop Position
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Yankees decided to change things up at shortstop on Friday, bringing in Jose Caballero for the first time since Sunday.
After Anthony Volpe played all three games against the Royals, where he started at shortstop, Caballero had taken on third base and left field roles. But for the opener against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park, Caballero was back at shortstop. He had a solid performance, recording 2 hits and 1 RBI in 4 at-bats, and the Yankees secured an 8-2 victory.
This left Volpe sitting on the bench for the night and practicing ground balls at both shortstop and second base beforehand. It’s a bit unclear, though, when the Yankees might actually slot Volpe in at second.
“They’ve both earned their places,” manager Aaron Boone commented. “As we move forward, it’ll sort itself out. The good part is, both are performing well. I see them as critical to our success, and I hope we can win many games together.”
“I think it’ll work out, especially considering Caballero’s versatility. He hasn’t played much recently, so it’s good he has the chance to get on the field. It’s all about having confidence in both players right now,” Boone added.
Boone mentioned that daily decisions regarding the shortstop position hinge on the specifics of each series. Against the Royals, the matchup dynamics allowed for both players to be in the lineup, given the presence of right- and left-handed pitchers.
However, facing traditional right-handed pitchers like Luis Severino and JT Ginn in the initial games against the Athletics means that Boone is looking to incorporate more left-handed hitters. This scenario typically results in only one of Caballero or Volpe making the lineup.
It’s possible that both left-handers could see action during the final game of the series on Sunday.
“I don’t discuss lineup decisions with them every single day,” Boone noted. “I did talk to both when Caballero returned from the injured list. To be honest, it’s not always the right call every day, but those kinds of decisions are essential for me to make. I’ll always aim to do what’s best for the team.”
JC Escala was behind the plate for the fifth time in 11 games, catching for Carlos Rodon as Austin Wells continues to have struggles at the plate, going 0-for-4 on the day.
“We’re trying to give JC more opportunities,” Boone said. “I’m hoping to get Austin back on track here. He needs to find some form. Today felt like a good moment to involve JC.”
Additionally, Jason Dominguez started using the Trajekt pitching machine on Thursday as he progresses from a mild AC joint sprain in his left shoulder.
