Anthony Volpe Yankees return looks promising ahead of 2026 season. [Image Source: BOLAVIP]
The New York Yankees could see shortstop Anthony Volpe back on the field earlier than anticipated during the 2026 season. Volpe underwent surgery in October 2025 to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, an injury initially sustained in May and aggravated again in September of the same year. This injury limited Volpe’s performance in 2025, as he finished the campaign hitting .212 with a .391 slugging percentage and a .663 OPS.
Due to the surgery, Volpe will not be available for Opening Day 2026, with José Caballero slated to fill the shortstop position initially. Caballero, a veteran utility player acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in July 2025, is expected to lead off the season at shortstop. Additionally, the Yankees have brought Paul DeJong to spring training as a non-roster invitee, likely serving as a backup plan for the position.
While the precise schedule for Volpe’s return remained unclear over the winter, recovery was tentatively set for May. Volpe, however, has recently expressed optimism regarding a potentially earlier comeback.
“We had an idea of what the best case, what the worst case, and everything in between would have been,”
“I wasn’t shocked. I had great trainers and a great doctor.”
As spring training progresses, Volpe has started running, taking dry swings, and practicing fielding ground balls, showing encouraging signs. His recovery progress has led him not to rule out a return as early as April.
Image of: Anthony Volpe
“Judging on how everything’s gone so far, I’m just excited,”
Volpe added.
Uncertainty Surrounding Volpe’s Role with the Yankees Moving Forward
Despite Volpe’s positive attitude about his recovery, his future role in the Yankees’ lineup remains uncertain. General Manager Brian Cashman’s comments during the winter meetings suggested that Volpe might not regain his starting shortstop position immediately upon returning. When asked about Volpe, Cashman remarked,
“I have no idea where things can go,”
according to The Athletic, and later added,
“may the best man win and keep it.”
This uncertainty is heightened by José Caballero’s strong performance in 2025. Caballero not only produced slightly better offensive numbers than Volpe but also led Major League Baseball with 49 stolen bases. Defensively, Caballero outperformed Volpe, who led the American League in errors with 19 during the injured season. Therefore, should Caballero continue to excel early in 2026, Volpe’s starting position could be in jeopardy.
Yankees Bank on Volpe’s Recovery and Contribution in 2026
The Yankees remain hopeful that a healthy Anthony Volpe will return to form and become a key player once again. Volpe had been regarded as the organization’s top overall prospect just a few years ago, with a strong minor league track record, particularly with the Somerset Patriots. His past performance also includes a Gold Glove award, highlighting his defensive skills at shortstop.
New York is eager to see Volpe overcome his recent challenges, viewing his subpar 2025 season primarily as a consequence of his shoulder injury. A fully recovered Volpe could play a crucial role in the team’s strategy and success going forward, providing both defensive strength and offensive potential.
