Jose Caballero is emerging as the New York Yankees' primary shortstop, receiving the majority of playing time over Anthony Volpe. Manager Aaron Boone described the situation as "day-to-day," but Caballero has been increasingly favored, despite neither player having definitively seized the position offensively.
Caballero has impressed with his defense, making "head-turning plays" and demonstrating a stronger arm than Volpe. Offensively, Caballero has posted a .688 OPS, slightly better than Volpe's .668 OPS. In the last 10 games, Volpe has struggled, slashing .222/.276/.222, which may be attributed to inconsistent playing time.
Historically, Volpe has been the everyday shortstop since spring training 2023, appearing in 472 of 486 games between 2023 and 2025. However, his bat has not developed as anticipated. With the return of Trent Grisham and Ryan McMahon from injury, the Yankees have had more stability, reducing the need for utility players and consequently decreasing Caballero's time at other positions and Volpe's overall playing time.
Meanwhile, top prospect George Lombard Jr. is nearing a return to action. The 21-year-old infielder began conquering Triple-A competition before suffering finger sprains in mid-June. He returned to action Friday for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, going 2-for-3 with a home run and a walk. Lombard had also homered in his rehabilitation games in the Florida Complex League, suggesting his bat is ready.
Boone acknowledged that Lombard could become a factor this season and that internal discussions are ongoing regarding his potential promotion. "It's no secret how highly we think of George," Boone said of Lombard, who could also be a trade piece. "He's just getting back now from a fairly short IL stint. Had a good game [Friday] night, obviously, and so he's certainly more and more in his development pushing himself into the conversation."
