New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe has earned the right to hold the leadoff spot when DJ LeMahieu returns from the injured list.
Manager Aaron Boone told reporters before Sunday's game against the San Diego Padres that Volpe will remain in the leadoff spot when LeMahieu returns from a rehab assignment in Triple-A.
Volpe's season thus far is best viewed in three parts. For the first 16 games of the season, Volpe hit .373 with a 1.006 OPS in 70 plate appearences. Over the next 18 games, Volpe hit .164 with a .493 OPS in 82 plate appearances.
Finally, over his last 19 games, Volpe is hitting .333 with a .918 OPS in 89 plate appearances. He's certainly earned the right to keep the leadoff spot.
Entering the series against the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, Volpe is riding a 19-game hitting streak.
Boone also mentioned that LeMahieu is expected to be activated from the injured list Tuesday for the first time this season.
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