The New York Yankees have crafted a pitching strategy that hinges on one fundamental principle: keep the ball on the ground and let their defense handle the rest. But this approach has hit a snag, and it revolves around the man stationed at shortstop, Anthony Volpe.
Volpe was slated as the everyday shortstop heading into the season. Now, midway through 2026, questions have arisen about whether he truly belongs in that role. The concern isn't about his dedication or character-it's about his arm strength.
Joel Sherman of The New York Post has brought this issue to light, and it's become a hot topic in Yankees discussions. During a recent appearance on “The Michael Kay Show,” Sherman highlighted a lingering worry that's followed Volpe since his return from shoulder surgery. He argued that Volpe's throwing limitations are central to his defensive struggles.
Sherman summed it up succinctly: “Anthony Volpe has a second baseman’s arm and he plays shortstop.” According to Sherman, Volpe's errors often stem from him trying to compensate for his arm by rushing plays. Unlike a shortstop with a strong arm who can afford to take a moment to plant and throw, Volpe is forced to field on the move and release early, leading to mistakes.
This critique hits hard because of the Yankees' team construction. Sherman pointed out that New York boasts the best ground ball pitching staff in Major League Baseball. Their strategy relies on the infield converting those ground balls into outs, raising the stakes for every play directed at shortstop.
Sherman added that the Yankees rank poorly in completing double plays when Volpe is on the field, framing this as a structural issue rather than mere bad luck. The team's pitching identity and Volpe's defensive capabilities are at odds.
A recent game against the Red Sox provided a prime example. In a 6-3 loss at Fenway Park, Volpe failed to turn an inning-ending double play in the eighth inning.
His throw to first base pulled Ben Rice off the bag, allowing a run to score and cementing Boston's lead. This play mirrored Sherman’s concerns perfectly-a quick, accurate throw was needed, but Volpe couldn’t deliver.
Volpe’s journey adds another layer to this debate. A New Jersey native and lifelong Yankees fan, he idolized Derek Jeter and aspired to play shortstop in the Bronx.
Yet, Sherman posed a tough question: is Volpe’s dream job also the right job for him? The pressure of playing in his dream city might be working against him.
Volpe’s defensive record is telling. He won a Gold Glove as a rookie in 2023, but his performance declined afterward.
He led the American League with 19 errors in 2025 and underwent offseason surgery for a torn labrum in his left shoulder. After a rough rehab stint, he returned to the Yankees on May 13 and has been sharing shortstop duties with Jose Caballero.
Sherman also discussed potential solutions. Prospect George Lombard Jr. has been praised for his defensive instincts, and a trade for a shortstop was mentioned. However, neither option offers a quick fix.
Currently, the Yankees are leading the American League East with a 48-32 record, two games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays, and firmly in the postseason race. While their position is strong, the shortstop dilemma persists.
For now, Volpe remains the Yankees' primary choice at shortstop, a position they can't afford to misjudge. As the pitching staff continues to induce grounders, the debate about Volpe’s fit at shortstop will persist with every play.
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