Yankees’ Volpe Frustrated by Overturned Pick-Off Call in Loss to Reds

In a game marked by aggressive base running, the New York Yankees swiped six bases on Sunday, their highest total in a game since 2013. However, one stolen base that was not counted left shortstop Anthony Volpe feeling particularly frustrated in a 4-1 loss to the Cincinnati Reds at Yankee Stadium.

The pivotal moment came in the bottom of the third inning when Volpe walked to lead off the inning. He was picked off first base by Reds right-hander Chase Burns, a play that initially saw Volpe called safe. But the Reds challenged the call, and after review, it was overturned, leaving Volpe disheartened.

“I had nowhere to go,” Volpe explained, referencing how first baseman Sal Stewart’s foot effectively blocked his path back to the base. “In spring training, at shortstop receiving throws to second base, we try to be spot on with that rule. It’s not from us. The league tells us.” Despite his protestations, umpire Brian O’Nora remained firm in his decision.

Volpe recounted his conversation with O’Nora, stating, “He told me he didn’t want to watch [the replay] on the screen. He said the throw took him there. It’s up to him.” The frustration was compounded when teammate Ben Rice followed up with a home run, giving the Yankees a brief 1-0 lead. “It’s a huge play in the game,” Volpe lamented. “It took a run off the board.”

Volpe also highlighted the importance of the rule, noting that it is designed to prevent injuries. “You don’t want to mess up your shoulder sliding back into first,” he added.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed sympathy for Volpe but acknowledged the reality of the situation. “By the letter of the law, he’s blocking the base,” Boone said. “Are you really gonna get that call very often? Probably not.”

Despite the setback on the pick-off, the Yankees showcased their speed on the bases, capitalizing on Burns’ slow delivery to home plate. The six stolen bases were distributed among just three players: Cody Bellinger, Jasson Domínguez, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., each stealing two bases. The only caught stealing came from José Caballero, who overslid second base and was tagged out by shortstop Edwin Arroyo.

With 80 stolen bases this season, the Yankees are experiencing their most prolific base running since 2002, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory on this day. “As an infielder, you’ve got to be locked in on that rule,” Volpe concluded, underscoring the need for awareness in the game.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.