New York Yankees prospect Anthony Volpe faced criticism after expending both of his Triple-A team's replay challenges within the first six pitches of a Wednesday game for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. The incidents occurred during Volpe's leadoff at-bat in the first inning.
Volpe's first challenge came on a 3-0 count, which was called a strike. The broadcast noted the pitch barely touched the top of the strike zone. "Kind of an odd challenge on 3-0," commentator Steve Degler remarked, suggesting Volpe should have saved the challenge. The team was left with no further challenges after this call.
He then lost a second challenge on a 3-2 pitch that resulted in him being called out. This pitch was confirmed by the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system to be in the zone. Volpe was observed smiling as he returned to the dugout after being called out.
"They are out of challenges six pitches into the game," broadcaster Mike Zambelli said on the broadcast. "He's got a big smile on his face. I'm going to guess the other 27 guys on the team aren't real happy right now."
Volpe, who has been playing second base, is reportedly working to adapt to the position as his path back to the major leagues may depend on his performance there. George Lombard Jr. has been filling the shortstop role for the RailRiders and has performed well both offensively and defensively.
Despite the early challenges, Volpe finished the game 2-for-4 with a double in the RailRiders' 11-3 loss. He is currently batting .304 with one home run and two RBIs in five games.