Aaron Boone Gives Vague Anthony Volpe Timeline as Return Nears

aaron boone would not say whether Anthony Volpe will walk back into the Yankees’ starting shortstop job when he returns from his rehab assignment. Boone gave the same answer twice on Wednesday: “We’ll see.”

Volpe’s Rehab Pace

Volpe went 2-for-4 for Double-A Somerset in his 10th rehab game and improved to 10-for-33, a.303 average, while working back from left shoulder surgery last October. That puts him close enough for the Yankees to be thinking about a return, but not close enough for Boone to lock in the role.

Boone kept the answer short when pressed again. “He’s playing again today [in Somerset]. We’ll see.” Later, he repeated, “It’s Wednesday. He’s playing in Somerset today. We’ll see.”

Caballero’s Hold On Shortstop

The uncertainty lands in the middle of a spot Jose Caballero has handled while Volpe has been out. Caballero is hitting.267 with three home runs, a.713 OPS and 12 steals in 16 tries, and his last 14 games have been even better: 18-for-49 with a.367 average, two home runs, two doubles and six steals.

That recent run gives Boone a real choice once Volpe is cleared. Brian Cashman said on April 10 that Volpe had “always been the plan” to be the starting shortstop when he returns, but he also added, “But it’ll ultimately be the manager’s call.”

Orioles Series Looms

The timing matters because the Yankees are preparing for a four-game series against the Orioles at the Stadium starting Friday night if Volpe is cleared soon. If that happens, Boone will have to decide whether to restore the job immediately or keep Caballero in place after his recent stretch at the plate and on the bases.