Volpe exits with elbow contusion after HBP, 'optimistic' about quick return

NEW YORK – Anthony Volpe has been one of the Yankees’ most durable players over the past two-plus seasons, which is why it seemed concerning when the shortstop writhed in significant discomfort after being hit on the left elbow by a pitch during Friday night's 9-6 win over the Red Sox at Yankee Stadium.

The Yankees announced Volpe had sustained a contusion, and hours later, Volpe said his left elbow felt “painful and stiff.” X-rays and a CT scan taken late Friday came back clean, and manager Aaron Boone said he hopes Volpe won't be out for too long.

“Knowing that it’s truly sound and I’ve just got to get the swelling out, I’m definitely optimistic,” Volpe said. “I expect to be in there [Saturday].”

Volpe was clipped by Walker Buehler’s 88.8 mph changeup in the second inning, forcing in a run with the bases loaded and picking up an RBI the hard way to give the Yanks a 7-0 lead at the time.

Examined on the field by head athletic trainer Tim Lentych, Volpe initially remained in the game, running the bases and playing defense in the top of the third. He was replaced by Oswald Peraza at shortstop in the fourth inning.

“I used to get that in the Minor Leagues a lot, that one right there [on the elbow],” Boone said. “He’s a little stiff and sore, but hopefully nothing that keeps him out for very long.”

Volpe, who hit a two-run homer in New York’s five-run first and tied a season high with three RBIs, is slashing .241/.321/.445 with 17 doubles, two triples, eight homers and 37 RBIs in 61 games.

“You want to be available for the team,” Volpe said. “That’s the way to be the best teammate. Not just me, but everyone puts in a lot of work every single day to be able to go out there and compete for your team.”