New York Yankees’ 21-Year-Old Derek Jeter-Like Prospect Reveals His Method of Dealing With Pressure Ahead of Potentially Starting On Opening Day

Since Derek Jeter retired in 2014, the New York Yankees have struggled to find a long-term shortstop to replace him. Several players have filled in the position since he left, but none were able to keep the position long-term. That may be about to change as 21-year-old Yankees prospect Anthony Volpe develops as a player.

Volpe is currently undergoing his first Spring Training with the Yankees. In Spring Training, he has shown the ability to hit MLB-level pitching. Most recently, Volpe opened up about dealing with the pressure of potentially being the Yankees’ Opening Day shortstop.

New York Yankees prospect Anthony Volpe opens up on dealing with the pressure

New York Yankees’ 21-year-old prospect Anthony Volpe is among the names under consideration for the starting shortstop job. He has shown skill as a batter and versatility as a fielder during this Spring Training. He has even drawn comparisons to Derek Jeter at times. Most recently, Volpe revealed his way of dealing with the pressure of potentially being the Yankees’ starting shortstop. During an interview with YES Network, Volpe said that it is easy for him to focus because of his teammates. He credited his teammates and the coaching staff for helping keep him grounded and focused.

During the interview, Volpe said, “For me, I guess it’s not too difficult. Like I said, I mean we have a great support staff, great teammates that just help you be in the present every single day and go out and compete and try and put your best foot forward. But um, yeah, I just think my support system and everything else just nothing really too different. It allows me to focus on playing.” 

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This is a mature and well-thought-out answer from Volpe who has also opened up about following in Derek Jeter’s footsteps. It will be interesting to see if the 21-year-old does indeed win the starting shortstop job to begin the season. 

Volpe has remained humble throughout Spring Training

Despite his great performance in the Minor Leagues last year and good Spring Training showing, Anthony Volpe has remained humble. The 21-year-old prospect has recognized his own lack of Major League experience. Furthermore, he is looking to soak up as much knowledge as he can and continue to learn more. 

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Volpe is looking like one of the favorites to be the New York Yankees’ starting shortstop. What do you think of how Anthony Volpe is dealing with the pressure? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!