Yankees' Anthony Volpe Faces Phillies' Zack Wheeler in First Rehab Start

Volpe goes 0-for-2 with two strikeouts in five innings as he begins comeback from October shoulder surgery.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:52am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a baseball game or match, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors representing the dynamic action on the field.Volpe's return from injury offers a glimpse of the Yankees' future, as the young shortstop prospect battles back from surgery.Scranton Today

New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe began a rehab assignment on Tuesday, facing off against Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler in his first game with Double-A Somerset. Volpe, who is recovering from October surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, said he 'felt amazing' despite going hitless in two at-bats with two strikeouts. The Yankees plan to have Volpe play in four games this week as he builds up his workload, potentially moving to a different affiliate next week to continue increasing his stamina.

Why it matters

Volpe's return from injury is a critical milestone for the Yankees, as the 21-year-old shortstop prospect is considered a key part of the team's future. His ability to recover fully and regain his form at the plate will be closely watched as the Yankees look to solidify their infield and lineup for the 2026 season.

The details

Volpe faced a tough test in his first rehab game, matching up against Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, who is also on a rehab assignment as he recovers from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery. While the results of the individual matchup are not the primary focus, Volpe's ability to get back on the field and face live pitching is an important step in his recovery process. The Yankees plan to have Volpe play in four games this week with Double-A Somerset, potentially moving him to a different affiliate next week to continue increasing his stamina and at-bats.

  • Volpe began his rehab assignment on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
  • Volpe is expected to play in four games this week with Double-A Somerset.
  • The Yankees may move Volpe to a different affiliate next week to continue his rehab.

The players

Anthony Volpe

A 21-year-old shortstop prospect in the New York Yankees organization, who is recovering from October surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

Zack Wheeler

A starting pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies who is also on a rehab assignment as he recovers from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery.

Brian Cashman

The general manager of the New York Yankees.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

Jake Bird

A relief pitcher in the New York Yankees organization who was recently sent down to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

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What they’re saying

“I feel amazing. It's a big milestone, big checkpoint. Felt good to get back out there.”

— Anthony Volpe

What’s next

The Yankees plan to have Volpe play in four games this week with Double-A Somerset, including a potential back-to-back on Thursday and Friday. He will then likely move to a different affiliate that is playing at home next week to continue increasing his stamina and at-bats.

The takeaway

Volpe's return from injury is a crucial development for the Yankees, as the highly touted shortstop prospect is seen as a key part of the team's future. His ability to successfully complete his rehab and regain his form at the plate will be closely watched as the Yankees look to solidify their infield and lineup for the 2026 season.