The New York Yankees are testing third baseman Ryan McMahon at shortstop during spring training to evaluate whether he could serve as a backup option, according to Greg Joyce of New York Post Sports. While the move introduces a new variable, the team is not abandoning hopes for Anthony Volpe at shortstop, despite Volpe recovering from a shoulder injury.
Volpe’s Position Remains Secure for Now Amid McMahon’s Experiment
Volpe is expected to reclaim the starting shortstop role once healthy, with existing backups covering for him in the meantime. Still, the decision to give McMahon innings at shortstop is attracting attention, as McMahon was acquired at last season’s trade deadline and has primarily contributed at third base. This development raises questions about the team’s longer-term plans for Volpe and the position.
Possible Platoon Strategy and Performance Comparisons
One speculative angle is that the Yankees might be considering a platoon approach at shortstop. Volpe, once a top prospect, has posted moderate offensive numbers, batting .249 with a .726 OPS against left-handed pitchers but struggling with a .213 average and .639 OPS versus right-handers. In contrast, McMahon, a left-handed hitter, has performed slightly better against right-handed pitching with a .243 average and .763 OPS, but less effectively against southpaws.
Volpe’s Future and the Yankees’ Championship Ambitions
At 24 years old, Volpe still appears to be the primary shortstop candidate for the Yankees, who remain eager to end their World Series drought dating back to 2009. Nevertheless, incorporating McMahon into shortstop duties may be a strategic move to add depth or possibly send a signal to Volpe as the season progresses. The Yankees’ urgency for a championship could influence their personnel decisions more than Volpe’s current status suggests.
Implications of McMahon’s Shortstop Experiment on Team Dynamics
Ultimately, while initially seeming like a precautionary maneuver to increase shortstop depth, allowing McMahon to take ground balls at the position could have lasting effects on Volpe’s role moving forward. The Yankees’ willingness to explore this option highlights the fluidity of their roster planning as they seek the best chance to compete at a high level this season.
The Yankees plan to get Ryan McMahon some reps at SS this spring just to see if he can be an option as a backup SS if needed, per Boone.
— Greg Joyce (@GJoyce9) February 18, 2026
