The New York Yankees may have celebrated Giancarlo Stanton’s five-RBI return in a 5–1 win over the Nationals on Tuesday, but the spotlight still found its way back to Anthony Volpe — and not for the reasons he’d like. The young shortstop went hitless again, keeping his batting average stuck at .206 with a .669 OPS, numbers that have left fans restless and analysts debating whether he can turn things around.
Manager Aaron Boone, however, isn’t flinching. He continues to back Volpe, emphasizing effort, flashes of talent, and the normal learning curve of a young player. “He hits one 106 to the wrong part that last at-bat,” Boone said after the win. “I thought (he) got some good swings off. Out in front of the breaking balls from Gore.”
Boone’s Vote of Confidence
Boone pointed out that while the box score doesn’t tell the full story, Volpe is making strides. Hard-hit outs — like that 106-mph fly ball that would have been a homer in most parks — are proof that the swing is there, even if the results lag behind.
“He’s very capable,” Boone said. “I think the biggest thing for him here in the first few seasons of his career is the ups and downs, the peaks and valleys offensively. So it’s just continuing to work really hard at being more consistent.”
That consistency has eluded Volpe to start the season, but Boone insists patience is key.
Can Volpe Turn It Around?
The history books suggest he can. Volpe has been a stronger second-half player since reaching the majors, often finding his rhythm after the All-Star Break. His combination of speed, defense, and occasional power keeps him valuable even when the bat is quiet, but the Yankees are counting on more than just potential as the season wears on.
For now, Boone is preaching trust and time. Stanton’s big return gave the Yankees some breathing room in Tuesday’s victory, but the team knows it will need Volpe’s bat if it wants to sustain success deep into the season.
The next few weeks will be critical for the 23-year-old. The Yankees are monitoring closely, waiting for Anthony Volpe to do what Boone insists he’s capable of.
