After enduring a disappointing weekend series against the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Yankees are aiming for a turnaround as they begin a new set against the San Diego Padres on Monday. Along with some lineup adjustments, they’re also getting a significant boost with the return of a familiar face.
Volpe Makes His Return After Shoulder Concern
Anthony Volpe, the energetic shortstop often seen as the Yankees’ ignition point, is back in action and hitting sixth in the order. His comeback arrives just two days after a worrisome incident during Saturday’s matchup—Volpe dove for a ground ball near third base, landing awkwardly on his shoulder.
He said he “heard a pop”—a worrying sound for any athlete—and shortly after, mishandled a potential double-play ball that led to Tampa taking the lead.
At the time, many fans speculated that his error may have been caused by lingering effects from the dive. And they were right.
Volpe was sidelined for Sunday’s game, which marked the Yankees’ second straight defeat to the Rays. But after undergoing medical testing, the results came back clear. With clean X-rays and MRI scans, and positive movement observed recently, he’s been cleared to return.
Impact Goes Beyond the Numbers
Volpe’s stats—a .768 OPS, five home runs, ten doubles, and four steals—don’t necessarily grab headlines, but his contributions reach further than raw numbers.
He brings athleticism, sharp instincts, and a calming presence that helps unify the defense—like the spine of a well-worn book. It’s no secret: the Yankees perform better when he’s on the field and healthy.
MLB: Kansas City Royals at New York Yankees, Anthony Volpe – Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Lineup Tweaks Around Volpe’s Return
The Yankees have also made notable changes to the batting order. Trent Grisham is leading off, followed by Aaron Judge and rookie Ben Rice in the second and third spots.
Veteran slugger Paul Goldschmidt is batting cleanup, with Cody Bellinger hitting fifth, just ahead of Volpe. Catcher Austin Wells follows him in the seventh slot.
The lower third of the lineup features Oswald Peraza batting eighth and Jorbit Vivas, who gets the nod at second base, rounding things out in the ninth spot.
With Volpe’s return and a restructured lineup, the Yankees are hoping to shake off their recent struggles and find their rhythm once again.
