In 2023, the New York Yankees’ Anthony Volpe won the American League Gold Glove Award, given to the best defensive player in their position. He is the first rookie in New York Yankee’s history to do so. Volpe is the youngest shortstop in MLB history to earn this achievement.
After two years, the former first-round pick is struggling. With 19 errors, Anthony Volpe is tied for most errors in the American League. In 2023, Volpe maintained a .970 fielding percentage, which was a major factor in earning his Gold Glove. Since his rookie year, this has been in a regression. Volpe’s .965 fielding percentage this season is the lowest among qualified MLB shortstops.This defense is far below what was originally expected of Volpe for the 2025 season.
Amidst his defensive problems, Volpe has had trouble with his offensive production, with his batting average currently sitting at .211. As of early May, Volpe experienced a partial labrum tear in his shoulder. In September, he aggravated the injury once again, resulting in his absence from the starting lineup. This injury may have been a significant factor in his poor performance this year. From opening day leading up to his initial injury on May third, Volpe posted a .233/.326/.442 slash line, according to MLB.com. A slash line consists of a player’s batting average, on base percentage, and slugging percentage. However, moving forward from his injury, he batted a 197/.248/.378.
Some speculate that a major contribution to Volpe’s poor performance could have been due to the “Yips.” This condition can be described as a mental block that prevents players from doing certain things that should be routine actions. While this is just a possibility, it seems very likely that something like this may be occurring to the shortstop.
The way Volpe has been playing leads to many questions regarding his future. Looking ahead, the Yankees will have to face a difficult decision on how to handle Anthony Volpe’s development. As already displayed in seasons before, Anthony Volpe has shown can play shortstop at a high caliber. With that being said, what is in store for Anthony Volpe?
