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Shortstop Anthony Volpe’s shoulder surgery has put the New York Yankees in an interesting spot headed into next season. Though it’s too early in the offseason to know anything for certain, all signs are pointing toward Volpe missing the start of the season. That was the prognosis Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided after the surgery, according to MLB.com. In the projected Yankees lineup before any free-agent acquisitions, utility man Jose Caballero is now the starting shortstop in the Bronx. But what other moves will the Yankees make to fill out their infield depth chart? NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 01: Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees turns the double play in the first inning as Amed Rosario #1 of the Cleveland Guardians is out at second at Yankee Stadium on May 01, 2023 in Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) On Wednesday, Joel Sherman of the New York Post suggested that one possibility was bringing back free-agent infielder Amed Rosario, who played a lot of second and third base for the Yankees against left-handed pitchers down the stretch. Among Yankees, there is an outside chance that Amed Rosario and/or Ryan Yarbrough could be in play to return. Rosario has never hit lower than .284 against lefty pitching in a season. It was .302 with an .819 OPS last season. He could play second or third and a little outfield in a pinch. He is a reserve player who brings enthusiasm and strong work habits. If Jose Caballero begins next season as the Yankee shortstop as Anthony Volpe rehabs from shoulder surgery, could the Yanks use, say, Oswaldo Cabrera and Rosario as flexible bench pieces?” Rosario, 29, had a solid .788 OPS in 16 regular-season games for the Yankees after the trade deadline. He also recorded three hits, including a double, in 10 postseason at-bats. Short-sided platoon players are difficult to commit to, but the Yankees had to like what they saw, and there’s no shortage of tough lefties in the American League these days. Ultimately, how the Yankees feel about Volpe’s return timeline and ability to retain the full-time starting job once he’s healthy should determine how they act with regards to Rosario. If they don’t bring him back, someone will likely take a stab at the nine-year veteran on a major league deal. More MLB: Reds Make First Offseason Move, Dump 7-Year Veteran off 40-Man Roster
