Analysts Excluded Volpe From Projected Yankees Playoff Roster
The New York Yankees, currently holding an 88-64 record, have clinched a spot in the upcoming MLB postseason.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Baseball
Live Poll
Should your local team prioritize veteran players over rising prospects during a playoff run?
New York Yankees analysts Bryan Hoch and Patrick Donnelly have omitted shortstop Anthony Volpe from their latest projected playoff roster. Instead, the projection features George Lombard Jr. as the starting shortstop for the club.
Why it matters
The team is currently navigating the final stretch of the season as they trail the Tampa Bay Rays by 5 games for the AL East lead. With the Yankees expected to host a Wild Card series, roster configurations remain a primary focus for observers.
Anthony Volpe recorded a .253 batting average with 2 home runs and 26 RBIs during the regular season. The team enters this transition holding an 88-64 record, trailing the Tampa Bay Rays by 5 games.
The players
Anthony Volpe
He is a professional baseball player who has served as the starting shortstop for the New York Yankees.
George Lombard Jr.
He is a professional baseball player who is projected to take over the starting shortstop position in this analysis.
Bryan Hoch
He is a sports analyst who co-authored the projected playoff roster for the team.
Patrick Donnelly
He is a sports analyst who co-authored the projected playoff roster for the team.
The details
Analysts Bryan Hoch and Patrick Donnelly compiled the current projection, opting to start George Lombard Jr. at shortstop. The move highlights the internal deliberation occurring as the team prepares for a post-season run following their playoff qualification.
Timeline
September 18, 2026: The projection was published.
September 20, 2026: The Yankees begin a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Season Trajectory
This roster projection reflects the high-stakes decisions facing the club as they prepare for a likely home Wild Card series. These adjustments are central to the team's ability to maximize their lineup efficiency as they fight to overcome a 5-game deficit in the AL East.
The exclusion of Volpe in favor of Lombard Jr. suggests a significant shift in defensive strategy for the upcoming postseason series. Fantasy managers and fans should note that this projection impacts the anticipated starting lineup for the team's opening game against Arizona.
The takeaway
Roster projections reflect the evolving strategic needs of a team preparing for high-pressure postseason play. Fans should monitor official announcements for definitive updates on the starting lineup before the playoffs begin.
Further reading
For additional context on the roster moves, visit the Baseball section.
Live Poll
Should your local team prioritize veteran players over rising prospects during a playoff run?
