NEW YORK – Anthony Volpe was not in the Yankees’ lineup for a second consecutive day on Thursday, one day after the shortstop reportedly underwent treatment to address an issue with his ailing left shoulder.
The New York Post reported Thursday that Volpe received a cortisone injection in his non-throwing shoulder. The issue dates to a May 3 fielding play against the Rays at Yankee Stadium, when Volpe felt a “pop” in the shoulder when diving for a ball.
Though the Yankees said there was no structural damage in Volpe’s shoulder, he has been receiving treatment for months, including wearing ice wraps in the clubhouse after games. Volpe has said it is regular maintenance.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone acknowledged Wednesday that the shoulder was an issue Volpe had to manage “early on,” adding, “But I also think it’s something that’s also improved over the course of the year.”
“I feel like even lately, it’s been in as good a place as it’s been,” Boone said. “So I don’t necessarily think that’s the case, but he’s also a very tough kid and a gamer. So, I don’t think [it has affected his play], but I guess I shouldn’t rule it out.”
In 33 games from Opening Day through May 3, Volpe posted a .233/.326/.442 slash line, with 10 doubles, five homers and 19 RBIs.
He has batted .197/.248/.378 in 108 games since, with 19 doubles, four triples, 14 homers and 51 RBIs.
Boone reiterated this week that he still considers Volpe his starting shortstop, but indicated José Caballero could see more playing time at the position. Boone has previously indicated he would prefer to use Caballero in a “10th man” utility role.
“We’re in day-to-day mode,” Boone said. “We’re playing for a lot right now. I have a decision to make every day with the lineup, and whatever tough decision I think that is, I’ll make it. My hope is [Volpe] can kind of get it going here to a point where he is that guy. When we’re at our best, he’s out there impacting us on both sides of the ball.”
