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Today is a holiday on the Yankees calendar and Anthony Volpe has big plans.
“I couldn’t be happier for him and his entire family. I’m super excited,” said Volpe, who has been exchanging text messages with his friend since Texas announced the impending promotion of Leiter, the club’s No. 8 prospect according to MLB Pipeline.
Volpe and Leiter first met at an Upper East Side playground when they were young; Volpe’s family lived in the city at the time and Leiter’s father, Al, was a prospect for the Mets. They came together as classmates at the Delbarton School in Morristown, New Jersey.
As high school students, Volpe and Leiter teamed up to help Delbarton win a state championship. They also shared a dugout while representing Team USA and throughout an assortment of All-American events and the Area Code Games.
When asked about his favorite memories from that time, Volpe said, “Winning and being able to play behind him, watching him throw and dominate in high school, Team USA and everything we were able to do together.”
Both Volpe and Leiter committed to Vanderbilt University, but Volpe chose to sign with the Yankees after being selected with the 30th overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft.
“He’s a great competitor,” Volpe said. “So mentally tough and obviously incredibly talented with all his throws.”
In three games (two starts) at Triple-A Round Rock, Leiter is 1-1 with a 3.77 ERA, striking out 25 while allowing three walks and 11 hits in 14 1/3 games. sleeves.
Volpe said he’s already thinking about a chance to face Leiter in a major championship match. The Rangers will visit Yankee Stadium from August 9-11, then the Yankees will be in Arlington from September 2-4.
“Certainly,” Volpe said. “Even before he was called.” I’m excited.”
While Volpe is personally looking forward to seeing Leiter pitch, he recognizes how important Thursday’s game will be to the classmates, coaches and teachers who helped each of them on their respective journeys to The Show.
“It’s amazing for the whole community,” Volpe said. “I know all the levels we were at, whether it was me when I first got drafted in the minors or him when he went to Vandy, it’s cool to see it’s the same level support, no matter where you are.
“Obviously everyone is supporting (us) now and is really motivated. But I think at least from my perspective what stands out the most is how much they support you throughout the journey.
News Source : www.mlb.com
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