Volpe’s Near-Redemption in ALDS
In a season with its ups and downs, Anthony Volpe almost delivered his best performance at the right moment.
Unfortunately, what seemed like a game-tying, two-run homer in Game 3 of the ALDS was thwarted—much like Jeffrey Maier’s famous play—and a few innings later, the Yankees found themselves swept by the Rays.
Nonetheless, Volpe’s almost-moment serves as a reminder of his potential future with the team. After being demoted to Triple-A twice this season, losing his role as the starting shortstop, it appears he still has a shot at contributing next season, possibly as the second baseman.
Looking ahead, there’s a long stretch of time before baseball resumes—if it resumes—thanks to a looming lockout, but with the offseason approaching, Volpe has carved out an opportunity for himself to return to the Yankees. He could become the double-play partner for George Lombard Jr.
“If we were going to go win a World Series, we needed Anthony Volpe on the team,” Aaron Judge stated late Wednesday. “He’s an incredible player, not just for his talent, but for how he handles adversity—dealing with criticism when he wasn’t playing well, going down to Triple-A, working on his game, and coming back strong. It really shows his character and grit.”
Not too long ago, Volpe was playing at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, looking like someone who might be traded this offseason for a change of scenery. While it’s still possible that the 25-year-old could be dealt during the winter, the departure of Jazz Chisholm Jr. to free agency may open up a spot for Volpe at second base, at the very least as a temporary option.
During the Yankees’ five playoff games, Volpe started over Chisholm twice. His first start was against Red Sox lefty Payton Tolle in Game 1 of the AL wild-card series, and then again in Game 3 of the ALDS versus Rays righty Nick Martinez when the stakes were high. Manager Aaron Boone even contemplated starting Volpe at third base, a position he’s played just once in the majors, for Game 2 against the Rays but opted against it, concerned about the playoff implications on Tropicana Field’s tricky turf—though sticking with Ryan McMahon ultimately didn’t pay off for the Yankees.
Volpe’s presence at second base for Game 3 highlighted Chisholm’s struggles, but it also reflected the organization’s faith in Volpe. His response to being demoted reinforced that belief, particularly after being replaced by Lombard post-trade deadline.
“What Volpe demonstrates in facing adversity speaks volumes about his character,” Boone remarked. “The way he has come back and the quality of at-bats he’s produced [in Game 3], it’s impressive.”
Despite going 3-for-7 with a double and two strikeouts in his playoff appearances this year, questions linger about what he might contribute offensively next season. The time spent in Triple-A allowed him to adjust his swing in ways he couldn’t last offseason, primarily using a step-back with his back foot to improve his rhythm.
In the 14 regular-season games after his return from Triple-A, he managed a .265 batting average with a .695 OPS, one home run, and five stolen bases. Whether he can build upon this—especially considering he has a career .661 OPS over four seasons—is uncertain.
Volpe seemed at ease at second base, a position where his arm strength is beneficial and where he can take his time making plays. This might just be the key to solidifying his role in The Bronx next season after a rollercoaster year.
“I just wanted to stay in the moment,” Volpe shared late Wednesday. “I haven’t even processed everything that’s happened to me this year or how to improve. I focused on what I could do each day to become a better player, teammate, and Yankee.”
