Yankees Shortstop Caballero Struggles as Volpe Waits in the Wings

Caballero's poor start to the season could open the door for top prospect Anthony Volpe to take over the starting shortstop role.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:34pm

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Jose Caballero, the New York Yankees' starting shortstop, is off to a rough start this season, hitting just .143/.211/.171. Meanwhile, top prospect Anthony Volpe has been waiting in the minors for his chance, and with Caballero struggling both at the plate and in the field, that opportunity could come sooner rather than later.

Why it matters

The Yankees have been high on Volpe and have given him multiple chances to win the starting shortstop job. Caballero's poor play to start the year could force the team's hand and accelerate Volpe's path to the big leagues, which is sure to excite the Bronx faithful even if it means parting ways with Caballero.

The details

Caballero, who was hoping to cement his place as the Yankees' starting shortstop this season, has struggled mightily, going hitless for a long stretch before finally recording a double against the Athletics. The 24-year-old has acknowledged his poor start, saying 'You have those bad stretches, and it's just bad for me that this stretch came at the beginning, right when I got the chance to be playing every day.' Meanwhile, Volpe, the Yankees' top prospect, could begin a minor league rehab assignment as early as mid-April as he works his way back from injury. With Caballero's defensive issues compounding his offensive woes, the Yankees may have no choice but to turn to Volpe at shortstop sooner rather than later.

  • Caballero has hit .143/.211/.171 on the season so far.
  • Volpe could begin a minor league rehab assignment as early as mid-April.

The players

Jose Caballero

The New York Yankees' starting shortstop who is off to a poor start this season, hitting just .143/.211/.171.

Anthony Volpe

The Yankees' top prospect who has been waiting in the minors for his chance to take over the starting shortstop role.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees who has given Volpe multiple chances to win the starting shortstop job.

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What they’re saying

“You have those bad stretches, and it's just bad for me that this stretch came at the beginning, right when I got the chance to be playing every day.”

— Jose Caballero, New York Yankees Shortstop

What’s next

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The takeaway

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