The New York Yankees arrived in Southern California on a high after sweeping the Los Angeles Angels, ready to open a three-game set against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.
Back East, though, the picture looked different for one of the organization’s most watched young players.
Anthony Volpe, assigned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, started at third base Wednesday night for the RailRiders. His night ended early after he was struck by a pitch.
Volpe was hit in the fourth inning. He stayed in the game through the next two frames, stole a base and lined out in his following at-bat, then left in the sixth.
A source told ESPN that Volpe suffered a right forearm contusion.
“Anthony Volpe left last night’s game in Triple A with a right forearm contusion, a source tells ESPN,” Yankees beat writer Jorge Castillo wrote.
“He was hit by a pitch in the fourth inning and initially stayed in the game, stealing a base and lining out in his next at-bat before he exited in the sixth inning.”
Before he departed, Volpe went 2-for-3 with a double. It was his third start at third base since the Yankees optioned him to the minors in early August.
“Volpe made his third start at third base last night and went 2 for 3 with a double and the HBP,” Castillo wrote. “He’s batting .276 with a .632 slugging percentage and 1.008 OPS in 23 games since being sent down in early August.”
The RailRiders are scheduled to play again Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. Eastern. Volpe’s availability remains listed as to be determined.
Meanwhile in the major league clubhouse, shortstop George Lombard Jr. is expected to return to the lineup against the Padres. Lombard has been out since Saturday after getting hurt against the Boston Red Sox.
He described the issue as inflammation and soreness around his patella and kneecap.
“George Lombard Jr. said he is dealing with inflammation and soreness in his patella/kneecap area but that ‘structurally, all ligaments and everything major was fine,’” Yankees reporter Peter Sblendorio said.
Manager Aaron Boone has sounded optimistic that Lombard can avoid the injured list.The 21-year-old took over the everyday shortstop job after Volpe was sent down.
That timing now looks especially relevant. Volpe’s latest setback comes just as the Yankees hope to get their current shortstop back on the field.
The club will keep evaluating both players as the series in San Diego begins.
