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New York Yankees Shortstop Makes Crucial Decision Ahead Of Opening Day

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Cresswell McCoy | Last updated Mar 20, 2026 3:48 AM ET

The New York Yankees have had a decent offseason, and they are still making adjustments to their team. Recently, manager Aaron Boone mentioned that they will enter the 2026 season with three catchers on their roster.

The Yankees are dealing with a couple of injured players. Carlos Rodon and Clark Schmidt will miss significant time until they get back on the mound. The good news is that Gerrit Cole is back on the mound.

However, Shortstop Anthony Volpe will miss the start of the season . While they do have plenty of options, another player has made a crucial decision ahead of Opening Day. The Yankees have planned to use Jose Caballero in the absence of Volpe.

Anthony Volpe (image Credits: Getty Images)

Apart from that, they will also have veteran slugger Paul DeJong on their list. DeJong is a shortstop and a third baseman who will be their backup option.

Paul DeJong Does Not Opt Out of Yankees Deal

DeJong had an optout which he could have taken, but the slugger decided not to. For now, he will remain on the Yankees squad as they enter the 2026 regular season. DeJong has only a minor league deal with the Bronx Bombers. He could get promoted if he stays consistent and proves his worth.

Volpe had a miserable season last year. His defensive struggles were pretty evident. Now that he’s on the IL, Caballero will step up, hoping to make a change.

DeJong’s 2025 season was not too great either. The slugger signed a deal with the Washington Nationals, but was soon placed on the IL after a fastball from Mitch Keller struck him in the face.

The Yankees also have Ryan McMahon as their third baseman for now. Depending on Oswaldo Cabrera’s return, DeJong has the opportunity to either play third or shortstop if the Yanks deal with more injuries in the future.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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