Yankees Manager Discusses Second-Year Star's Hot Hitting Start

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone reveals how he’s feeling about a second-year star's improvements at the plate.

Apr 1, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe hits a single against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the third inning at Chase Field. / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees picked up another win on Monday night, beating the Arizona Diamondbacks, 5-2.

Right-hander Luis Gil threw well, tossing 4 2/3 innings, striking out six, and allowing one earned run. 

After a season of disappointment in 2023, the start of the Yankees year has been incredible. Contributions have come from everyone on the roster, but certain individuals have impressed more than others. 

Anthony Volpe has been a key part of the early success for New York. 

His at-bats have been much improved, working counts and taking better swings than he was in his rookie season. 

Volpe taking a leap in his second year doesn’t come as a surprise.

The 22-year-old finished with 21 home runs and 24 stolen bases in his rookie campaign, but it was clear he could reach another gear. Slashing .571/.667/1.000 so far this season, Volpe is showing that he can produce at the highest of levels with his bat.

A 4/4 performance with two doubles, two runs scored, and an RBI, he continued his hot stretch at the plate in the Yankees win on Monday night.

After the game, manager Aaron Boone discussed what he’s seen out of the young shortstop in the early stage of the season. He had the following to say, according to Zach Buchanan of MLB.com.

“I just think he’s a way better hitter. Results can be fleeting, especially this time of the year, but the fact that he is getting results and the quality of each at-bat, it’s been impressive.”

It’s a long season, but this is as promising as a start Volpe and the rest of the team could’ve asked for. They’ll look to improve to 6-0 on Tuesday night against Zac Gallen who is the Diamondbacks' ace and one of the top pitchers in baseball.