Anthony Volpe is the New York Yankees’ starting shortstop.
The 21-year-old prospect has made the Opening Day roster, winning the competition against fellow prospect Oswald Peraza and incumbent Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
LISTEN TO FULL YANKEES COVERAGE ON WFAN
Volpe, the Yankees’ first-round pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, entered Spring Training as the organization’s top prospect and much hype on whether or not he would make the team.
The New Jersey native basically left the Yankees no choice with the way he played throughout the spring.
In 17 games, Volpe slashed .314/.417/.647 with three home runs, six doubles, a triple and five stolen bases. Boone broke the news to Volpe in his office on Sunday as he becomes the first rookie shortstop to start Opening Day since Derek Jeter.
"It's super surreal," Volpe told reporters after learning the news.
"The obvious exclamation point here is Anthony Volpe came into camp and took this position,” GM Brian Cashman told reporters. “He should be congratulated. It was well played. He’s earned the right to take that spot for the New York Yankees as we open the 2023 seaosn and we’re excited for him.”
The Yankees remain uncertain on plans for Peraza — whether he will be used in a bench/fill-in role or if he will stay in Triple-A to receiver regular at-bats.
Kiner-Falefa is likely to be used in a utility role as the team was even getting him reps in center field during the spring.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram