Yankees’ Rising Star🌟 #YankeesFutureAllStar

The New York Yankees’ offensive potential for the 2024 season has received a significant boost with the recent additions of Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo. Soto, a 25-year-old batting sensation, showcased Hall of Fame-level skills by hitting a career-high 35 home runs in 2023, while Verdugo is expected to capitalize on the short right porch at Yankee Stadium.

However, the development of young infielder Anthony Volpe is seen as crucial to the team’s success. At only 22 years old, Volpe experienced his first major league season last year, encountering some notable challenges. Despite these fluctuations, Volpe exhibited moments of excellence, stealing 24 bases and hitting 21 homers with 60 RBIs.

The Gold Glove-winning shortstop for the Yankees struggled with a .209/.283/.383 slash line, a 27.8% strikeout rate, an 8.7% walk rate, and an 84 wRC+. By these metrics, he performed 16% below the average MLB player. However, his base-stealing ability added a dynamic threat and often posed a distraction for opposing pitchers. It is evident that Volpe is intensely focused on these numbers, working diligently to make significant improvements.

Anticipated to arrive in Tampa earlier than required, Volpe aims to put in extra work before the 2024 season kicks off. If he can enhance his batting average and on-base percentage, there is potential for Volpe to become an impactful number nine hitter, or possibly work his way into the leadoff spot. Ideally, a batting average above .260 and an on-base percentage exceeding 34% would enable Volpe to set the table for Juan Soto and Aaron Judge.

While the Yankees would love to see Volpe evolve into their leadoff man for the next decade, he still needs to take developmental steps in the right direction. Fortunately, his defense has already shown prowess by advanced metrics. Despite recording 17 errors over 1346.2 innings, Volpe achieved a .970 fielding percentage with 15 defensive runs saved, setting a franchise record at his position.

If Volpe can maintain or gradually improve his defensive performance, coupled with hitting above .260 and achieving an on-base percentage over 34%, he could enter the All-Star conversation. Consistency in power-hitting, with 20+ homers per season, solidifies his role as a vital component in the team’s offensive strategy. Despite being slated as the last hitter in the Yankees’ lineup, Volpe’s positive trajectory is a promising development for the team.