Yankees Shortstop Volpe to Begin Rehab Assignment in April

Manager Boone expresses confidence in Volpe's return despite 2025 struggles

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:39am by Ben Kaplan

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New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe will begin a rehab assignment in the second week of April, according to manager Aaron Boone. Volpe played through a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder during the 2025 season and postseason, but surgery revealed the injury was 'far worse than anyone could have expected'. The Yankees are taking a cautious approach to Volpe's recovery, prioritizing his long-term health over rushing his return.

Why it matters

Volpe's decision to play through the injury highlights a growing trend in professional sports of athletes pushing through significant injuries, which can often exacerbate the problem. The Yankees' handling of Volpe's recovery reflects a broader shift in baseball towards prioritizing player health and longevity, utilizing data analytics and medical expertise to optimize recovery protocols.

The details

Volpe's 2025 season saw a batting average of .212, a .272 on-base percentage and a .663 OPS across 153 games, leading to questions about his long-term viability as the Yankees' starting shortstop. With Volpe sidelined, the Yankees will rely on Jose Caballero and Oswaldo Cabrera to fill the shortstop position, underscoring the importance of having versatile players and a robust farm system capable of providing depth during injuries.

  • Volpe will begin a rehab assignment in the second week of April.
  • The Yankees will open the 2026 MLB season on the road against the San Francisco Giants.

The players

Anthony Volpe

New York Yankees shortstop who played through a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder during the 2025 season and postseason.

Aaron Boone

Manager of the New York Yankees who has expressed confidence in Volpe's ability to be a 'frontline shortstop' in the league.

Jose Caballero

Yankees player expected to cover the shortstop position in Volpe's absence.

Oswaldo Cabrera

Yankees player expected to cover the shortstop position in Volpe's absence.

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What they’re saying

“I still think Anthony is going to be a frontline shortstop in this league.”

— Aaron Boone, Manager

What’s next

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The takeaway

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