New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe underwent offseason shoulder surgery and is expected to miss the beginning of the 2026 MLB season. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman indicated in October that Volpe’s return could happen around April, though a late start in May is possible.
During Volpe’s absence, the Yankees will rely on veteran José Caballero, acquired through a midseason trade last year, to cover shortstop duties. This situation raises questions about whether the 24-year-old Volpe will lose his starting position to Caballero if the latter performs well during this period.
Despite this potential challenge, Emmanuel Berbari from SNY believes Volpe will maintain his role as the primary shortstop once fully recovered.
I think it’ll be Volpe, and it’ll be Volpe by a wide margin,
Berbari said during the Feb. 3 edition of Baseball Night in New York.
I think the shoulder affected his defense more than was let on last year. All you need is the defense from Volpe to justify maybe some subpar hitting.
The New York Yankees still believe in him. He comes back, provided he comes back on time and healthy. The Yankees see more value from José Caballero as that tenth man than as the starting shortstop, so I think Volpe reclaims the job.
Manager Aaron Boone Addresses Volpe’s Role Amid New Competition
Since his MLB debut in 2023, Anthony Volpe has accumulated a .222 batting average, 382 hits, 52 home runs, 192 RBIs, and 217 runs, along with a Gold Glove award, according to StatMuse. Despite these numbers, Volpe’s consistency remains under scrutiny in New York.
On February 2, Yankees manager Aaron Boone openly discussed Volpe’s standing with the arrival of José Caballero. Boone acknowledged Caballero’s ability to defend multiple positions, including shortstop, and the push he has created for playing time.
Now with José Caballero in the mix, we have somebody that’s like, ‘Man, this guy’s a really good big league player,‘
Boone said.
I think [Caballero] showed that with us. He’s shown that the last couple of years with Tampa and Seattle, can really legit defend at a lot different places, including shortstop. He started to push himself into the mix a little bit last year.
I still think Anthony is going to be a frontline shortstop in this league. Everyone’s path isn’t linear. We always wanted to be here. That can be tough, especially in New York, when you’re finding your way. I think he’s going to turn into that player, and I wanted to be here. But bringing guys in like Caballero, I think that’s good for competition.
Yankees Management Expresses Confidence in Volpe’s Potential
Following the Yankees’ exit in the American League Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025, the front office reaffirmed their belief in Anthony Volpe. Brian Cashman emphasized that despite ongoing roster evaluations, the organization has faith in Volpe’s development and ability to handle the New York spotlight.
I believe in the player still. I think we believe in the player,
Cashman said in an October interview with ESPN’s Jorge Castillo.
It doesn’t mean we don’t play with, on any level, all aspects of roster assessments. He’s 24 years old. I don’t think the New York stage is too big for him. It’s just still finding his way.
What Volpe’s Recovery and Performance Mean for the Yankees
Anthony Volpe’s shoulder surgery, while a setback, does not appear to threaten his position as the Yankees’ starting shortstop long term. The presence of José Caballero creates valuable competition, which management and coaching staff believe will push Volpe to improve. As Volpe progresses toward a full return in the spring, the Yankees’ confidence in his defensive skills and potential remains firm.
Looking ahead, Volpe’s health and ability to reclaim consistent playing time will be essential factors influencing the Yankees’ infield stability and overall performance in the 2026 season. Given the team’s commitment to his growth, Volpe’s recovery and subsequent form are likely to be key storylines as the season unfolds.
Which Yankee plays the most games at shortstop for the Yankees this year: Anthony Volpe or José Caballero?@BerbarionAir discusses on BNNY:
➡️ Tri-State @Cadillac pic.twitter.com/styRheMWVm
— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) February 3, 2026
Aaron Boone on Anthony Volpe's leash heading into his fourth season:@craigcartonlive @CMacWFAN pic.twitter.com/6Ffo1JQwvE
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) February 2, 2026
