Columnist Predicts Anthony Volpe Won’t Be Yankees’ First-Choice Shortstop in Playoffs

A New York Post columnist predicted that Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe will not be the team’s first-choice shortstop once the postseason begins, asserting that Volpe could “become Gary Sánchez” in how his role plays out, according to a piece published Sept. 9, 2025.

The writer framed the forecast as peculiar within a sports media environment that often favors loud, definitive declarations, saying he typically avoids predictions but felt compelled to offer one grounded in “history, observation and experience.” The column argues that despite the clarity sports ultimately provide through wins, losses and championships, many commentators rush to definitive long-term claims — and that Volpe’s potential playoff status is one such case deserving closer scrutiny.

The piece draws a direct analogy between Volpe and former Yankees catcher Gary Sánchez, saying the comparison reflects an anticipated shift in how the club might deploy personnel once postseason baseball begins. The columnist did not present the prediction as inevitable, but described it as a forecast he hopes is informed by patterns he has observed in baseball decision-making.

The column is positioned against a broader critique of modern sports coverage. The writer said the current ecosystem elevates bold prediction-making and post-hoc celebration of the few forecasts that prove correct, a practice he implied is at odds with the measured assessment he prefers. He acknowledged the unusual nature of offering a prediction while also noting the value of drawing on historical examples when projecting how teams manage rosters under the pressure of playoff competition.

Yankees officials have not confirmed any postseason roster or lineup plans in response to the column. The team’s shortstop decisions for the playoffs will ultimately be determined by the club’s management and coaching staff, with final roster and lineup moves dependent on health, matchups and performance in the run-up to the postseason.

The columnist’s forecast adds to public discussion about Volpe’s role heading into October. Whether the prediction will be borne out will become clear as the Yankees approach the postseason and make final decisions about starting positions and bench construction.