When Didi Gregorius stepped into the Yankees’ clubhouse back in 2015, he wasn’t just taking over a position-he was stepping into a legacy. Replacing Derek Jeter was never going to be easy, but Gregorius didn’t flinch.
Over five seasons in the Bronx, he became more than just the guy who followed the Captain-he became a fan favorite in his own right. And now, at 35, with his playing days winding down, Gregorius made a surprise appearance that had Yankees fans feeling all kinds of nostalgia.
On Tuesday, Gregorius stopped by the Yankees’ spring training facility in Tampa ahead of his stint with Team Netherlands in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. And yes, he brought his bat with him.
In a video posted on social media, Gregorius can be seen taking batting practice with the Yankees, casually launching balls into the outfield like he never left. It wasn’t an official workout-spring training hasn’t even officially started yet-but it was enough to spark a wave of buzz among fans, many of whom still hold a soft spot for the former shortstop.
And let’s just say, some of that buzz turned into full-blown calls for a comeback.
The reason? Anthony Volpe.
Volpe, the Yankees’ current shortstop and once one of the most hyped prospects in the system, is entering a crucial year. After three straight seasons with an OPS of .666 or lower, patience among parts of the fanbase is wearing thin. Add in the fact that he’s coming off offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum, and the questions about his development are getting louder.
So when fans saw Gregorius looking sharp in the cage, the reaction was swift. Comments flooded the post showing Didi’s BP session, with more than a few pleading for the Yankees to bring him back.
“Sign him now!” one fan wrote.
“I’ve seen enough, he’s still better than Volpe,” another chimed in.
It’s easy to understand the sentiment. Gregorius was a steady presence both offensively and defensively during his time in pinstripes.
He brought pop from the left side of the plate, played with flair, and had a knack for big moments-especially in October. Fans remember that version of Didi, and in a world where shortstop production has been inconsistent, nostalgia can be powerful.
But while the fan enthusiasm is real, the Yankees’ front office isn’t hitting the panic button on Volpe. They’ve remained publicly confident in his potential and believe he can rebound now that his shoulder issue has been addressed. At just 25 years old, Volpe still has time-and tools-to grow into the role the organization envisioned for him.
As for Gregorius, his visit to camp was more of a reunion than a tryout. He’s gearing up to represent the Netherlands in international play, and while he may not be in the Yankees’ future plans, his presence was a reminder of the impact he had during his time in New York.
For now, it’s a feel-good moment at spring training-one that gave fans a glimpse of the past while the team continues to look ahead.