MLB scout believes New York Yankees top prospect Anthony Volpe's future lies in a different position than shortstop
The New York Yankees are still sorting out their infield with Anthony Volpe, Oswald Peraza and Isiah Kiner-Falefa all in the hunt to start. While veteran Kiner-Falefa has the most experience and Peraza had a strong finish to the 2022 season, many favor Volpe as the Opening Day starter.
The Yankees tried out several players at shortstop and second base last season. DJ LeMahieu, Gleyber Torres, Oswaldo Peraza, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Marwin Gonzalez and Oswaldo Cabrera all had stints in the positions. After a productive spring training, highly-rated prospect Volpe has emerged as the frontrunner to start at shortstop.
There is, however, some uncertainty about Volpe's best position. According to a recent article in the New York Post, one scout who has been following him closely does not see him as a shortstop.
"He’s always reminded me of Dustin Pedroia. He’s on the small side"
The article goes on to say that the scout believes Volpe will eventually end up at second base.
#Yankees top prospect Anthony Volpe is hitting .308 this spring. Seven of his 12 hits are for extra bases, including this double today: https://t.co/DWUznioOJp
"#Yankees top prospect Anthony Volpe is hitting .308 this spring. Seven of his 12 hits are for extra bases, including this double today:" - Bryan Hoch
It is well documented that many scouts questioned Dustin Pedroia's ability to make it as a big leaguer. His size and physique had many doubting his long-term value to an MLB organization.
Pedroia went on to play in 1,563 games for the Boston Red Sox over a 14-year career. He finished with 145 home runs, 750 RBIs and an impressive lifetime .299 regular season batting average.
New York Yankees prospect Anthony Volpe is in the hunt for the starting SS position after a strong spring training
Anthony Volpe is currently the New York Yankees' top prospect and the number five prospect in the league. He is listed at 5'11 and 180 pounds so has an edge over Pedroia in both those categories.
His standout performances in spring training mean there is a real chance the Yankees will opt for youth next season. Volpe has a .308 batting average and tremendous 1.028 OPS. Over 39 at-bats, he has recorded two home runs, three RBIs, 12 hits, nine runs and five stolen bases.
Anthony Volpe gets high praise from DJ LeMahieu 💪💪#RepBX https://t.co/mopQD1sgAM
"Anthony Volpe gets high praise from DJ LeMahieu #RepBX" - Fireside Yankees
Since legendary infielder Derek Jeter retired, the Yankees have had difficulty finding a franchise shortstop. Volpe's rapid development has some fans believing he is the answer to all the club's problems.
It will be interesting to see whether Aaron Boone places his trust in the 21-year-old to play one of baseball's most difficult positions.