In 2023, New York Yankees Shortstop Anthony Volpe made his Major League Baseball debut. Yankee fans’ emotions ran high as he hit the highlights in a number of categories, but at times, he struggled as much as he succeeded. I’ve put together this wish list for Volpe going into the new year and want to see him improve and make even more impactful contributions to the team in 2024. Volpe was the youngest player to start a season opener since Derek Jeter in 1996, and by September, it showed as he was clearly gassed at the end of the season. He played in 159 games, just shy of the top MLB leaders, such as now-teammate Juan Soto, who played in 162.
Fans look forward to his durability and solidity in the middle of the infield and another eye-popping defensive campaign in 2024. His defensive WAR rating was 2.4, third best in MLB, and he had 15 defensive runs saved, which earned him a Gold Glove, the first for a Yankee rookie. Can he repeat this stellar performance in 2024? Is a platinum glove in his future? Volpe’s contribution to the offense was a rollercoaster as he suffered the pains of being a rookie hitter in a tough American League East. However, his contributions were not insignificant, as he hit 21 home runs and stole 24 bases. What Yankee fan can forget the excitement Volpe generated as he went 10-for-10 in steal attempts to begin the season? Volpe’s speed on the bases was a welcome addition to the offense for a team with virtually no running game. His power surprised Yankee fans who witnessed his first grand slam – the youngest player ever to hit a grand slam at Yankee Stadium. He was also the first rookie Yankee shortstop to hit a grand slam.
If I could have a wish list for Volpe going into the 2024 season, it would be:
- Hit with more consistency for contact, bringing the batting average up to .230 and beyond. Volpe hit .209 on the season, so improving his average is bound to happen as he matures and gains experience.
- Continue to steal 20-25 bases – speed is a tool he brings to the table that is in much demand on the Yankee offense.
- Don’t be afraid to swing for the fences, but that is not his role. If he continues to hit 20-plus home runs in 2024, it will be icing on the cake for a potent power offense.
- Work that glove again as he did in 2023 and continue to collect hardware at the end of the year.
Yankee fans have the highest hopes for Volpe going into 2024. He has experienced a season of successes and failures under his belt. Can fans hope to see him play 159 games again? He likely also learned how to condition himself in the offseason for the long grind of an MLB season. It’s time to look forward to the elite talents and abilities that will bring Volpe more success and contribute to its overall success in 2024.
