The Yankees battle for the starting shortstop position is starting to come to complete fruition. Per Buster Olney, Oswald Peraza will be the starting shortstop this season unless “something unforeseen” happens. Isiah Kiner-Falefa is on the trade block, with the Dodgers and Rockies both reportedly being interested.
Anthony Volpe, the Yankees top prospect, is definitely making this decision very hard for Aaron Boone, and Brian Cashman. Volpe has been very good thus far in spring training, showing off his hit tool, his power, fielding and speed. Consistently high exit velocities is something to take into consideration, his fielding has also shown that it’s really good as well and a key part of his game. Boone has said that Volpe’s lack of Triple-A at bats will factor into the final decision, I believe he’ll be up in the majors fairly early in the season.
“I think he’s got all the makeup tools. He checks a lot of boxes defensively, offensively. He’s got the speed … My thing has always been, if you’re the best player, it shouldn’t matter your age. You should be up helping the New York Yankees.”
– Aaron Judge, on Anthony Volpe
A public endorsement from the Captain is a pretty big deal, and it could go to show that Volpe is going to be a huge part of the Yankees this season, no matter when it is.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa has been all but ostracized from this battle for Shortstop. Most believe Peraza will be the Yankees starting shortstop come Opening Day (and rightfully so). The Yankees have been showcasing the incumbent Kiner-Falefa through spring training, with the Rockies and Dodgers interested, I have a very hard time believing that he will be on the Yankees come opening day.
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