Anthony Volpe had better start hitting with some consistency, or he could find himself competing for his shortstop job soon, USA Today reports.
In a recent feature, veteran reporter Larry Berger suggested that Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr. “may soon be on a collision course” with Volpe for the shortstop job in the Bronx.
That’s a bold statement, but Lombard Jr.’s stock is definitely rising inside the organization.
Lombard Jr., is the son of former big leaguer and current Detroit Tigers bench coach George Lombard and was drafted 26th overall in 2023. He has already opened eyes with his smooth glove, improving power and an advanced baseball IQ.
The 19-year-old is hitting .306 with a .494 on-base percentage and a .946 OPS, with a home run, eight RBIs, and nine stolen bases. The Yankees believe that the power will come as Lombard matures. Remember, he isn’t even 20 years old yet.
He’s also bilingual, polished in interviews, and perhaps most importantly, comfortable at short.
“I’ve played shortstop my whole life; I love playing shortstop,” he told USA Today. “But I pride myself on being a good baseball player… I’m confident that if I had to play outfield tomorrow, I could figure it out.”
That last part is key for the Yankees, who have long valued versatility. Lombard’s willingness to move around gives the team flexibility and gives him a quicker path to the big leagues.
But make no mistake: he sees himself as a shortstop and if Volpe does not continue to improve offensively, Lombard could be the Yankees’ shortstop of the future.
Volpe, for now, is holding his own.
As of April 29, 2025, he’s batting .229 with a .322 on-base percentage and a .448 slugging percentage, resulting in a .770 OPS. He has five home runs, 18 RBIs, and three stolen bases over 29 games
If Lombard continues on his trajectory, the Yankees will have a decision to make.
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