Pitchers and catchers are starting to report to their MLB clubs’ complexes for spring training, and the New York Yankees are gearing up to get the ball rolling. They’ll have a few key focuses down in Tampa this year.
Another season is on the horizon, all beginning with the Florida preparation. The Yankees are practically “running it back” with the roster they are fielding. They’ve made very few transactions, most of which were retaining players they had last season.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is banking on his returning roster to post success in a very competitive division. The only way this equation works is if the returning players develop to the expected standard and regain full health.
This spring training, the club will hone in on a few important focuses. The results of this could be make-or-break for the Yankees in 2026.
The Biggest Yankees Narratives in Spring Training
Time for Anthony Volpe to Make His Case
The entire Yankees organization and fanbase will be closely watching Anthony Volpe this spring training. The young shortstop was the talk of the infield in 2025, and not in a good way.
The organization was spoiled for a long time, employing one of the game’s most memorable shortstops. Derek Jeter spent his entire career in pinstripes and built a home in the Bronx. Upon retirement, everyone in baseball understood the type of shoes one would need to fill.
The next homegrown Yankees shortstop was Volpe, one of the team’s top prospects at the time. He was handed the throne in 2023, and over a three-season period, he’s digging himself out of the role. After three years, Volpe should have something to show.
The 2025 season ranged from mediocre to disappointing for Volpe. The Yankees shortstop’s final slash line was .212/.272/.391. He did hit 19 home runs and drove in 72 runs, but his bat was not often a major contributor in the lineup.
Volpe’s defense is what got him into trouble. The shortstop was mistake-prone and not confident in the hole. Mistakes killed his confidence, and so did the Bronx crowd. Volpe led the league in errors, with 19. This number stood out, especially in close game situations.
This spring training, the Yankees will be paying close attention to Volpe’s overall profile. His offense will be assessed for positive changes, along with his plate approach and pitch recognition.
His defense will be closely monitored along with his overall confidence and behavior. Volpe was said to have some outside distractions, which may have led to his lack of production.
Jasson Domínguez’s Production Will Be Closely Monitored
Jasson Domínguez showed a decent display in 2025 for the time that he did play. However, his performance was not competitive enough to keep management confident. Last season, he had a .257 batting average with a .331 on-base percentage and a .388 slugging percentage.
The fact of the matter is, Domínguez has three seasons of big league baseball, and (with the caveat that injuries have hampered him) he has not had a 15+ home run season, nor has he recorded 50+ RBI. His ability is there, and maybe more playing time will tell, but for now, Domínguez has not played up to expectations.
The Yankees outfielder may be fighting for an Opening Day roster spot. Spring training may be a real trial run for Domínguez.
Jasson Dominguez will probably start the season in Triple-A unless someone gets hurt pic.twitter.com/qkuqql2ya1
— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) February 11, 2026
Gerrit Cole’s Rehab and Readiness
The hot topic for the Yankees this spring training is the rehabilitation of Gerrit Cole. He is the leader of this Yankees starting rotation, and his leadership drives this ship.
Cole missed all of last season, with hopes of being back to start 2026. While he will not be ready for Opening Day, his spring progression is pertinent.
The Yankees’ coaching staff will ensure his mechanics are polished, and his command is re-established. Regaining his velocity will be the next focus, hopefully towards 100% ability.
These three areas of focus should lead to re-evaluations by the Yankees toward the end of spring training.
Main Photo Credit: Dave Nelson-Imagn Images
