Yankees’ short-term shortstop plan obvious, long game is another story

Why José Caballero Should Keep His Shortstop Job

After recently winning the shortstop job for the Yankees, José Caballero should not lose it to Anthony Volpe, despite Volpe’s recent strong performances. While Volpe has shown flashes of talent in the past, he has struggled to maintain consistency, especially offensively. Additionally, his defensive skills have been called into question, making it difficult for him to make a strong case for reclaiming the starting position.

With Caballero set to return from a right middle finger fracture, there is limited time for Volpe to prove that he has significantly improved his game. Caballero has excelled both offensively and defensively, leading in defensive runs saved even after his absence from the field. It is challenging to argue that Volpe is a better overall player than Caballero at this point.

It is essential to consider all aspects of the game when determining who should hold the starting shortstop position. Caballero’s consistent performance and strong defensive skills make him the obvious choice to retain the role. As he prepares to make his 2026 debut, Caballero’s return will bring stability and reliability to the Yankees’ infield, ensuring that the team remains competitive in the upcoming games.