Typically, reporting day is the least eventful day of spring training, but the Yankees shook things up on Wednesday. They revealed that right-handed starter Frankie Montas will require shoulder surgery next week, a procedure that might end his season prematurely.
Additionally, various roster matters were discussed as players arrived at Steinbrenner Field.
Here’s a summary of the updates:
Aaron Boone expressed interest in the impressive progress of top prospect Anthony Volpe but refrained from specifying what the rookie from New Jersey needs to achieve to secure a spot with the Yankees.
“I believe Anthony is going to become a standout player in this league,” Boone commented, adding that he wasn’t prepared to answer detailed questions about Volpe’s competition for an infield position.
“If Volpe emerges as the top choice, we wouldn’t hesitate to go with him,” Boone noted. “However, I don’t think he needs to meet a specific checklist. We’ll observe and let it reveal.”
Reliever Michael King, who underwent surgery last summer for a stress fracture in his right elbow, is confident he’ll be ready for Opening Day. Boone suggested that if King is fully healthy, he would likely join the bullpen. However, it remains unclear whether he will be used as a multi-inning reliever or an eighth-inning setup man for closer Clay Holmes.