Is the Current Yankee Top Prospect Soon to Be the Real Future in Their Infield?
The future shortstop of the New York Yankees doesn’t appear to be Anthony Volpe. Despite the fanfare that accompanied his arrival, Volpe’s performance over three seasons has not matched the hype. Meanwhile, the next great prospect may already be waiting in the wings, quietly ascending through the minor league ranks and building a résumé that demands attention. The Yankees have a long history of overhyping prospects, but this time, the numbers and the tools suggest they might actually have their answer in George Lombard Jr.
Lombard is no ordinary prospect. He has a baseball pedigree that is impeccable. His father, George Lombard Sr., is currently the Detroit Tigers’ bench coach, so his family’s athletic prowess is well documented. As a first-round pick who received a $3.3 million signing bonus, the younger Lombard was targeted as a cornerstone for the Yankees’ future. He’s a proven winner, with state championships in both baseball and soccer, and has been praised for his leadership and work ethic.
At just 20 years old, Lombard has already shown significant growth in his game in his short time with the Yankees. Defensively, he’s displayed plus range, soft hands, and a strong arm, routinely making highlight-reel plays at both shortstop and second base, including a signature jump throw reminiscent of Derek Jeter. He’s also shown the versatility to play multiple infield positions, adding value in an era where flexibility is prized. Yet, the player he resembles most is Carlos Correa of the Houston Astros.
Lombard and Correa are both tall, athletic, high-upside shortstops with advanced approaches and defensive potential. Lombard’s minor league production and skill set closely mirror what Correa showed at the same age and level. While Correa’s eventual MLB ceiling may be higher, Lombard absolutely fits the mold of a young Carlos Correa. Lombard is a potential impact shortstop who can contribute on both sides of the ball for the Yankees. The numbers imply as much. Lombard was on fire at High-A Hudson Valley, where he hit .329. In Double-A Somerset, he continued to impress with 84 hits, 64 walks, 68 runs scored, 24 stolen bases, eight home runs, and 36 RBI in 108 games, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive game and advanced plate discipline for his age.
Anthony Volpe has now had three full seasons since cashing in his golden ticket, yet he’s done little to justify holding onto the shortstop job by default. With middling offensive numbers and no significant strides in his all-around game, Volpe should have to earn that spot by outperforming more talented, emerging competitors. Meanwhile, Lombard is clearly on the ascent in the Yankees’ system, showing both statistical growth and a higher ceiling. As Volpe’s progress stalls, it’s becoming harder to ignore the possibility that the future at shortstop belongs to Lombard and that Volpe may already be on the decline.
In closing, the numbers and trajectory tell the story. Lombard brings elite athleticism, a polished approach at the plate, and a defensive skill set that continues to improve. He’s shown the ability to adapt and excel at every level, while Volpe has plateaued in the majors. For the Yankees, clinging to sentiment or past hype won’t keep them competitive; embracing Lombard’s rise is the bold move that can secure the shortstop position for years to come. For once, the answer to the Yankees’ future might be right in front of them, and this time, his name is George Lombard Jr.
