Anthony Volpe has dealt with serious issues this season for the New York Yankees — over 10 errors, some on routine plays and others in more difficult situations. But despite those struggles, he’s now found himself tied with one of Bryce Harper’s top-performing teammates.
In the Yankees’ 13-12 loss to the Marlins on August 1, Volpe stood out as the clear MVP of the game. He delivered at the plate, even as his team collapsed late. The loss sparked harsh criticism from Paul O’Neill and Michael Kay, who pointed to another defensive miscue by one of Volpe’s teammates in a game that quickly got out of control.
Still, being on par with a key Phillies contributor is a strong sign of growth for Volpe — especially when that player has been thriving next to Bryce Harper and continues to play at a high level post-All-Star break.
Which Phillies player is Volpe keeping pace with?
Volpe has now matched Kyle Schwarber with seven home runs since the All-Star break — putting him on even ground with one of Philadelphia’s most dangerous sluggers. That surge speaks volumes, considering the criticism Volpe has faced for his defensive lapses earlier in the season.
Over his last 14 games, Volpe has not only launched seven homers, but he’s also hitting .280 over 54 plate appearances — a clear sign of increased productivity in the second half of the year.
Better than some of MLB’s biggest names
Despite his defensive struggles, Volpe is outperforming several of the league’s biggest stars. With 17 home runs on the year, he’s ahead of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bobby Witt Jr., Teoscar Hernández — and even Bryce Harper.
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