The New York Yankees have a decision to make.
The competition for the shortstop position is still taking place in spring training.
Oswald Peraza was once seen as the favorite, but Anthony Volpe is making up for the lost ground rapidly.
In fact, it’s almost like a coin toss right now.
On one hand, the Yanks have seen how Volpe has put together a .939 OPS in the spring after stealing 50 bases last season in the minors.
On the other hand, Peraza is struggling in exhibition play but has successful Triple-A experience and was successful in his short MLB cameo last season.
Volpe has more upside; Peraza is the better fielder.
It’s a really tough choice.
If Volpe is the one getting the nod, he could make some age-related history for the franchise.
“If you were curious… Anthony Volpe will be 21 years & 336 days old on Opening Day. Only 3 Yankees have made their MLB debuts by starting ON Opening Day at 21 or younger: 1951 Mickey Mantle: 19 y, 179 d; 1930 Ben Chapman: 21y, 111d; 1932 Frankie Crosetti: 21y, 191d,” MLB stats expert Sarah Langs tweeted.
if you were curious…
Anthony Volpe will be 21 years & 336 days old on Opening Day
Only 3 Yankees have made their MLB debuts by starting ON Opening Day at 21 or younger:
1951 Mickey Mantle: 19 y, 179 d
1930 Ben Chapman: 21 Y, 111 D
1932 Frankie Crosetti: 21y, 191d—Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) March 24, 2023
Mickey Mantle won a spot in the Yankees outfield at just 19 years old in the fifties.
He was a special player.
We are not comparing Volpe to Mantle – that would be irresponsible and unfair – but Volpe is a special player too.
He has the potential to hit .300 with 20 home runs and 35 stolen bases if everything breaks right for him.
He has that kind of potential.
Will he get the chance?
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Derek Jeter Discusses The Importance Of The Negro Leagues
