Anthony Volpe, the highly regarded rookie shortstop, made waves with his surprising debut with the New York Yankees in 2023. He was initially not in the opening day scheme of things. However, Volpe’s firepower in spring training was hard to ignore for the franchise leadership.
Thus, the Yankees took a chance, and subsequently, Anthony Volpe made his debut in pinstripes at the tender age of 21. However, as any rookie, the shortstop faced his share of struggles. The inconsistency and inability to handle major league pitches stood exposed. Regardless, for the 2024 season, the Yankees, as well as fans, have set high expectations.
Anthony Volpe Endorsed By MLB Legend Ahead Of 2024 Season!
When a young kid from Jersey arrived in spring training last season, he dreamt of making a debut in pinstripes someday. However, the kid, Anthony Volpe, didn’t expect to receive the call-up so soon. He beat Oswald Peraza and Isiah Kiner-Falefa in the spring to earn a spot on the Yankees opening day lineup. However, Volpe’s rookie season was nothing short of a roller coaster ride. While his batting average stayed below par, Volpe scripted history with the first 20/20 rookie in the franchise’s history. He also bagged 24 stolen bases and 21 home runs across 159 games. Having said that, the expectations from the shortstop for the 2024 season remain sky-high. Former MLB legend Harold Reynolds says he expects Volpe to take off big time this year.
Having said that, the pressure to meet expectations has gotten the better of Anthony Volpe. He is often endorsed as Derek Jeter‘s successor. Jeter, a five-time World Series champion, is a hall-of-fame shortstop who etched his name into the record books of Yankees history. Thus, comparison with a legendary figure like Derek Jeter can create immense pressure. Regardless, Anthony Volpe has got the taste of the major league, and he now knows what to expect. The fear of the unknown is gone, which is a positive sign. Thus, in 2024, Volpe will likely have a much better season compared to 2023. His defense and athleticism remain top-notch. The only thing he needs is consistency to become an impactful player. Overall, the 2024 season will set the tone and shape Volpe’s long-term future in the Bronx.
Anthony Volpe Reaches Tampa With Yankees Captain Ahead Of Spring Training
Meanwhile, a few Yankee players reported to Tampa early for spring training, including captain Aaron Judge. He was accompanied by an extended group of players, including Anthony Volpe. Not only that, Judge and Volpe attended an NFL wildcard game while they were in Tampa. Gleyber Torres also joined the group to witness the NFL game.
Spring training isn’t until Valentine’s Day. However, several players have begun the grind early this season. Perhaps the pressure to produce a turnaround in the 2024 season drew the Yankee players to Tampa early. Regardless, the roster taking the season seriously is a positive sign for the Yankees. The stakes have never been this high. And the players, more than anyone, understand the gravity of the situation.
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