TAMPA, FL – The New York Yankees left Tampa with an answer to their shortstop position. They failed, however, to find an answer to who will man left field and more importantly: Who will be their closer? Anthony Volpe takes over the vital infield position, and how he deals with his hometown fans remains to be seen.
There is one other piece that should have come up north with this prickly franchise. Guest instructor Willie Randolph should have been offered a spot on the coaching staff. His spring influence on the young Volpe earned the praises of both Volpe and his dad, Michael.
The elder Volpe’s face would light up as he told a story of a game that he went to with his dad against the Boston Red Sox, and how the Yankees came from behind to pull out a victory. A triple by Randolph helped seal the win. Michael’s face would light up at the thought of Randolph tutoring his son during spring training. He made sure to tell Anthony to take full advantage of his teacher by asking questions and soaking it all in like a sponge.
Unlike the current coaches on this year’s staff, the Brooklyn-bred Randolph has been there, done that. As a young rookie on that 1976 team which led the Yankees to their winning ways. Willie held down the second base position, as he was surrounded by veterans like Chris Chambliss, Graig Nettles, Thurman Munson, Mickey Rivers, and Roy White. It was the beginning of the Steinbrenner Era, and that same Steinbrenner name is supposedly in charge of the current team.
It’s a no-brainer to put Willie in pinstripes, with his number 30, as their infield coach. As an ex-captain, coach, and manager, experience rules! Randolph is loaded with it, unlike the current crop of coaches they employ, who prefer a laptop over a fungo.
The Steinbrenner who is supposedly in charge, needs to man up and take a page out of his father’s book. Take charge like George did and hire Willie now! Show them that your DNA has traces of being THE BOSS!
