Dwindling New York Yankees Shortstop Anthony Volpe Remains Optimistic for Recovery
Anthony Volpe's Struggles and Improvements in the 2025 Season
Anthony Volpe, the New York Yankees' primary shortstop and their 1st round draft pick in 2019, has faced some challenges in the 2025 season. Despite his impressive career, Volpe's batting average has struggled to stay above .200.
In his rookie season, Volpe posted a 27.8% strikeout rate, which was over a half standard deviation higher than league average. This season, his liner rate is almost two standard deviations below league average and out of whack with his career norms. However, there are signs of improvement. Volpe's fly ball/line drive ball-striking has improved from last season.
Volpe's Adjusted Contact Score in 2023 and 2024 were 89 and 79, respectively, and his "Tru" Production+ levels were 77 and 75. These marks fell short of his earlier marks in these categories, but it's important to note that his 105 Adjusted Contact Score in 2025 is a career best.
Volpe's 2022 season showed some yellow flags, with a drop in singles and an overly power-focused approach. This season, he is projected to add 20-30 points of batting average and run into 15 homers per year.
Volpe's offensive struggles have impacted his normally reliable glovework. Jose Caballero has been taking occasional starts at shortstop from Volpe, but he has not been replaced by another player at the shortstop position as of the 2025 season.
Despite the struggles, Volpe's defensive tools remain above average. His grounder rate has been reduced by over 8% to 42.0%, and his Adjusted Fly Ball Contact Score is 116, but his unadjusted mark is limited due to the expansive middle third of Yankee Stadium.
Volpe advanced quickly through the minor leagues, despite the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the 2020 minor league season. In 2021, he ranked #11 on a list of top minor league position player prospects based on performance, and in 2022, he ranked #127 on the same list.
As Volpe continues to work on his approach, he is expected to increase his overall offensive ceiling and return to his promising form. With his above-average defensive skills and the Yankees' continued support, fans can look forward to seeing Volpe's progress in the coming seasons.
