Volpe shared that his father, Michael, who played a vital role in shaping his baseball career from a young age, was diagnosed earlier this year with a rare form of cancer. The diagnosis came just as Anthony was gearing up for the most important season of his career — his first full year as the Yankees’ starting shortstop.
The emotional toll, he says, has been overwhelming. “He was the one throwing me grounders in the driveway at 6 a.m. He drove me to every tournament, never missed a game,” Volpe recalled. “Now, I’m the one making sure he gets to every treatment.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone spoke out in support of Volpe, praising his maturity and quiet leadership during what he called “an unthinkably difficult time.” Inside the clubhouse, teammates have rallied around him, wearing wristbands with the initials “MV” during warmups in silent solidarity with his dad.
“It’s more than just baseball for Anthony,” said teammate Aaron Judge. “He’s showing up every day, grinding, smiling — and he’s carrying something a lot heavier than a glove.”
As the Yankees continue their push toward the postseason, fans now watch Volpe through a different lens — not just as a breakout talent, but as a son playing for something far more personal.
“I don’t know what tomorrow holds,” Volpe said. “But I know when I take the field, my dad’s watching. And that means everything.”