Yankees Prospect Anthony Volpe Faces Recovery Hurdles

Orthopedic surgeon discusses Volpe's partially torn labrum and long-term impacts.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

New York Yankees shortstop prospect Anthony Volpe is facing a recovery process after playing through a partially torn labrum in the 2025 season. Sports orthopedic surgeon Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan of NYU Langone joins a reporter to discuss Volpe's injury, the risks of playing through it, and the obstacles he must overcome before potentially returning to the Yankees.

Why it matters

Volpe is considered one of the Yankees' top prospects, so his recovery and ability to return to form is crucial for the team's future plans. Injuries like a partially torn labrum can have long-term impacts if not properly treated and rehabilitated, so Volpe's case highlights the delicate balance between player ambition, team needs, and long-term health concerns.

The details

Volpe, 22, played through a partially torn labrum in his shoulder for much of the 2025 season. This type of injury can be painful and limit a player's range of motion and throwing ability. Dr. Kaplan notes that while Volpe was able to play through it, there are risks of further damage and long-term arthritis if the injury is not properly treated and rehabilitated.

  • Volpe played through the partially torn labrum for much of the 2025 season.

The players

Anthony Volpe

A 22-year-old shortstop prospect in the New York Yankees minor league system.

Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan

A sports orthopedic surgeon with NYU Langone who specializes in treating athletic injuries.

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What they’re saying

“While Volpe was able to play through the partially torn labrum, there are risks of further damage and long-term arthritis if the injury is not properly treated and rehabilitated.”

— Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan, Sports Orthopedic Surgeon, NYU Langone (nypost.com)

What’s next

Volpe will need to undergo a full rehabilitation process to properly heal the partially torn labrum and regain full strength and mobility in his shoulder before potentially rejoining the Yankees.

The takeaway

Volpe's case highlights the difficult decisions young athletes face when playing through injuries, as well as the importance of proper medical treatment and rehabilitation to protect long-term health and future playing potential.