Derek Jeter’s illustrious 20-year MLB career in the Bronx sets a bar almost impossible for any shortstop to reach. Since his retirement from the major leagues in 2014, numerous shortstops have been incredible at their role out there. However, Anthony Volpe is the one who was finally drawn into Jeter parallels. But now that he’s leading the American League with 19 errors, the legend himself had to step in and lend some advice to the slumping 24-year-old.

Apparently, even someone like Jeter, the near-unanimous Hall of Famer, had faced occasional boos in the Bronx. Although it was nothing like what homegrown shortstop Anthony Volpe has gone through this season.

Offering him a comforting yet scary truth, Jeter said, “Hey look, it’s very hard to get to the major leagues. Once you get to the major leagues, it’s even harder to stay in the major leagues.”

Further, while speaking at a charity event for CC Sabathia’s “LegaCCy” foundation at The Museum of Natural History on Monday, Jeter added, “What every player strives for is consistency. Sometimes you have bumps in the road along the way. It’s just finding that groove. So everybody struggles.” Jeter’s words come from his own experience.

In April 2004, Jeter also faced boos as he hit .172 to open the season.

Yet, it wasn’t as bad as Volpe, who has held a .168 batting average, a .215 OBP, and a 53 wRC+. And consequently, he’s been heavily scrutinized lately. With playoffs next month, these numbers simply won’t cut it for the Yankees at shortstop. That’s why, even after Aaron Boone’s constant shielding, this might be the time he will turn to shortstop José Caballero, as also predicted by Joel Sherman.

Recently, Brian Cashman was praised by Yankees insider Bill Madden for his efforts in fortifying the Yankees’ roster with stars like Jazz Chisholm Jr., Ryan McMahon, and Jose Caballero. Taking this opportunity, he also pointed out Anthony Volpe’s struggles and advised the Yankees to bench him.

Longtime Yankees insider calls for Anthony Volpe’s benching

Bill Madden happened to be the first to drop a real hint about Juan Soto’s possible move to the Mets last year. It’s worth noting that he has covered the Steinbrenner family for years. He still has direct connections to what goes on inside. That’s why Madden’s words carry more weight than you think.

While pointing out Anthony Volpe’s continued struggles, he also called out that the Yankees have been stubbornly supporting him. He believes, at least for the time being, Volpe should be benched. Moreover, according to him, it’s how the Yankees have downplayed his struggles that has led the team to hurt this much in recent times.

The thing is, it’s for Volpe’s sake. The 24-year-old needs more than just a short rest. He’s the same guy who had hit 19 home runs and posted 70 RBI only to be drawn under heavy scrutiny. In fact, Yankees legend CC Sabathia also urged the Yankees to give him a breather. He emphasized how tough it is for young players to play in an environment like that of New York.

So, do you think the Yankees should finally give in, stop defending him, and do some real damage control?