Yankees Add Shortstop in MLB Free Agency Amid Anthony Volpe's Absence

The New York Yankees are entering the offseason following a disappointing end to the 2025 season. New York defeated the Boston Red Sox in the AL wild card but were bounced in the divisional round by the Toronto Blue Jays in four games.

As a result, there is a sense of urgency in the Yankees’ front office to finalize a roster capable of making a deeper postseason run and ending the franchise’s 16-year championship drought.

New York brought back outfielder Trent Grisham on a one-year deal, as he accepted the qualifying offer, with the team looking to replicate the offense that led the league in runs per game during the regular season with 5.2.

Yankees Add Shortstop in MLB Free Agency Amid Anthony Volpe's Absence — New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) © Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

That came despite the disappointing play of shortstop Anthony Volpe, who did not take a step forward in the batter’s box in 2025.

Over 153 games, the 24-year-old posted a .212 batting average, .272 on-base percentage, .663 OPS, 19 home runs and 72 RBIs.

However, it became clear toward the end of the season that Volpe was playing through an injury, and the Yankees announced in the offseason that he underwent surgery on his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum. He will miss the start of the 2026 season, with an estimated return in May.

The Yankees do have Jose Caballero, who will likely start in his place, yet they still need depth and options at shortstop.

As a result, the Yankees signed shortstop Jonathan Ornelas to a minor league contract, according to Matt Eddy of Baseball America. Ornelas will likely get an invite to spring training to compete for a spot on the 40-man roster.

Ornelas split the 2025 season between the Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves organizations. He spent most of the year in Triple-A, where he struggled at the plate, finishing with a .196/.295/.303 slash line across 393 at-bats. He made six big league appearances this past season and has played in 32 MLB games over the last three years, owning a .208 batting average, .263 on-base percentage and .508 OPS.

The Yankees likely signed Ornelas for his glove and defensive flexibility. While primarily a shortstop, he can play second and third base along with the corner outfield spots if necessary. Ornelas will likely compete for a spot on the Opening Day roster with hopes of turning his career around in the Bronx.

Related: Yankees’ Gerrit Cole Honor Emerges Amid MLB Offseason

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 21, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.