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Aaron Judge makes Anthony Volpe’s importance clear after Yankees elimination
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- Aaron Judge makes Anthony Volpe’s importance clear after Yankees elimination
Photo by Brendon Baranov/MLB Photos via Getty Images
Aaron Judge has made it clear that Anthony Volpe remains an important part of the New York Yankees' plans after their latest failed attempt to win the World Series.
The Yankees were eliminated in the American League Division Series, extending their wait for another championship as questions grow over the direction of the franchise.
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Judge missed the entire post-season through injury but still spoke about what the team needs to succeed, with Volpe receiving a strong vote of confidence from the captain.
Aaron Judge believes Anthony Volpe can help the New York Yankees win a World Series
Speaking after the Yankees' elimination, Judge said : "If we were gonna go win a World Series, we need Anthony Volpe on the team."
The comments will mean plenty to Volpe, who has endured a difficult spell since arriving in New York as one of baseball's most promising shortstop prospects.
Comparisons with Derek Jeter followed Volpe early in his career, but his struggles eventually led to the Yankees sending him back to the minors this season.
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He returned to the major league side and showed improvement after moving to second base, particularly while filling in for the injured Jazz Chisholm in September.
Volpe's defensive work and improved offence appear to have impressed Judge, who believes the infielder can help the Yankees compete for a championship with their current core.
That backing could become even more significant as New York considers its infield options for next season.
Chisholm's future is uncertain after a disappointing season, with the report suggesting the Yankees could struggle to match offers from other teams. He was also booed by fans during his final at-bat in Game 3 of the ALDS.
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Volpe started ahead of Chisholm in the Yankees' final game against the Tampa Bay Rays, further fuelling questions about the club's plans.
Judge's public support also comes at a time when the captain has faced criticism for previous comments about potential team additions and the organisation's spending.
With the Yankees once again falling short of their ultimate goal, Judge's leadership will be under scrutiny. Volpe now has an opportunity to justify the faith placed in him and establish himself as a key part of the team's plans for 2027.
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