How did Anthony Volpe’s first game at third base go? Here’s what Yankees manager Aaron Boone said
Aaron Boone shared his thoughts on Anthony Volpe’s first game at third base in the Yankees’ doubleheader opener vs. the Orioles.
Anthony Volpe made his first Major League appearance at third base Friday as the New York Yankees opened a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles. The experiment came during a 10-2 loss, but Volpe received almost no opportunity to demonstrate himself defensively.
The only ball hit toward Volpe came in the ninth inning, when Christian Encarnacion-Strand’s drive struck the third-base bag before bouncing over Volpe’s head. The play left him without a realistic chance to make an out, meaning he finished the game without recording a defensive chance.
Despite the limited action, Yankees manager Aaron Boone felt the experience was a valuable learning curve for Volpe.
“Not a lot of action over there but there’s something to be said for being in there, thinking through the situations and moving and setting up how you’re supposed to,” said Boone.
“Not a lot of action out there, but there’s something to be said for being in there and thinking through the situations and moving and setting up how you’re supposed to”
Aaron Boone talks about Anthony Volpe’s first MLB game at third base: pic.twitter.com/YVwfRUTmK7
— SNY Yankees (@snyyankees) September 25, 2026
Volpe returned to shortstop for the second game of Friday’s doubleheader, marking his first start at the position since Aug. 1. He could receive another opportunity at third base Sunday if New York play its regular-season finale, although rain is forecast.
The 25-year-old has already expanded his defensive responsibilities this season. Since returning from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Sept. 10, Volpe had started 11 games at second base. During his most recent stint in the minors, he also started three games at third base and did not make an error in three chances.
Volpe began his Yankees career as the team’s Opening Day shortstop from 2023 through 2025. He started this season on the injured list while recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. After completing a 20-day minor league rehabilitation assignment on May 3, he was optioned to Triple-A before returning to New York 10 days later after Jose Caballero fractured his right middle finger.
Following his Sept. 10 return, Volpe immediately made an impact by hitting a grand slam and driving in a career-high five runs. He has appeared in 68 games this season, batting .241 with two home runs and 26 RBIs.
His ability to handle multiple positions could provide the Yankees with another option heading into the postseason.
Anthony Volpe made his first Major League appearance at third base Friday as the New York Yankees opened a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles. The experiment came during a 10-2 loss, but Volpe received almost no opportunity to demonstrate himself defensively.