Struggling Shortstop Remains in Yankees Lineup vs. Zach Eflin Despite 0-for-24 Slide

Volpe, who started the season hot and seemed to be evolving into a key table-setter in the Yankees' lineup, has cooled off significantly in June. Over the last two weeks, he’s hitting just .125 with one extra-base hit and a .188 on-base percentage. During the last five games, he’s chased pitches out of the zone 32% of the time—up from his season average of 22%, according to YES Network research.

It's been a rough stretch where Volpe's struggles at the plate are following him onto the field. The Gold Glove shortstop has made several errors and mistakes. He's been called a bust on the Yankees radio station and offered advice by an actual former Yankees bust.

When pressed about giving Volpe a day off to try and take some of the pressure off him, Boone said yes, but not Saturday.
“Yeah, probably giving him one this weekend, right Sunday.”

The part that Boone didn't say out loud is that he wanted to give Volpe a chance against a pitcher that they know he hits well. Confidence is a huge part of hitting and when you have career numbers like Volpe does against Eflin, he will walk to the box feeling good.

Familiarity and confidence might just crack the slump.