The New York Yankees have acquired utilityman Jose Caballero from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade that sent Oswald Peraza to the Los Angeles Angels. Caballero is a speedy and versatile defender who provides a sturdier backup at shortstop for Anthony Volpe. He has played six positions this season, but has played the most at shortstop during his three-year career. The trade is seen as a move to strengthen the Yankees' bench and provide more depth in the infield. Caballero is expected to be a do-it-all player off the bench for the Yankees, bringing elite speed and defensive skills to the team.
The New York Yankees have made a savvy move to strengthen their bench, acquiring versatile utilityman Jose Caballero from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade that sent Oswald Peraza to the Los Angeles Angels. The deal, which went down during a game against the Rays, brings a speedy and agile defender to the Bronx.
A Do-It-All Player
According to ESPN, Caballero is a sturdier backup at shortstop for Anthony Volpe, having played six positions this season, with shortstop being his most frequent position. The 28-year-old has elite speed, with 34 stolen bases in 42 attempts this season, making him a valuable asset off the bench. “Jose is a do-it-all player who can play multiple positions and bring elite speed to our lineup,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “He’s a great addition to our team and will provide us with more depth in the infield.” (Source: ESPN)
Depth and Flexibility
The trade is seen as a move to strengthen the Yankees‘ bench and provide more depth in the infield. Caballero’s ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset, and his speed will be a welcome addition to the team. In a statement, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said, “We’re excited to add Jose to our roster. He’s a talented player who can help us in a variety of ways, and we think he’ll be a great fit for our team.” (Source: ESPN)
Impressive Stats
Caballero’s stats this season are impressive, with a .226 batting average, a .640 OPS, and 34 stolen bases in 42 attempts. He has also shown his ability to play multiple positions, having played second base, third base, shortstop, and outfield this season. In comparison, Peraza has struggled at the plate this season, batting .152 with a .452 OPS, and 26 wRC+. The move is seen as a way for the Yankees to upgrade their bench and provide more depth in the infield.
A Boost to the Bench
The acquisition of Jose Caballero is a significant move for the Yankees, bringing a talented and versatile player to the team. With his speed and ability to play multiple positions, Caballero is expected to be a valuable asset off the bench for the Yankees. As the team looks to make a push for the playoffs, Caballero’s addition will provide a boost to their bench and give them more flexibility in the infield.
"Jose is a do-it-all player who can play multiple positions and bring elite speed to our lineup." "He's a great addition to our team and will provide us with more depth in the infield."
Quick Stats
Caballero: .226 batting average, .640 OPS, 34 stolen bases in 42 attempts, 84 wRC+
Peraza: .152 batting average, .452 OPS, 26 wRC+
FAQs
Who is Jose Caballero?
José Caballero, a dynamic utility player from Panama born on August 30, 1996, made his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2023. After a stint with the Tampa Bay Rays, he was dramatically traded mid-game in 2025 to the New York Yankees. Known for his elite speed and sharp instincts, Caballero led the American League in stolen bases in 2024 with 44 steals and has stayed hot on the basepaths in 2025. Now with the Yankees, he serves as a sturdy and flexible backup to Anthony Volpe, already covering six different positions this season. His combination of speed, versatility, and clean defense makes him a powerful bench weapon and a key late-game asset.
Why did the Yankees trade for Jose Caballero?
The Yankees traded for José Caballero to boost their bench with a reliable, high-energy utility player. His ability to cover multiple infield spots, especially shortstop, and his elite speed on the bases give the team a smart, flexible option for late-game strategy and injury depth.
What is Jose Caballero's role on the Yankees?
How many positions has Jose Caballero played this season?
At 28, José Caballero is a scrappy, do-it-all player who brings hustle over flash. He’s hitting .226 with a .640 OPS, but his real value comes from his 34 stolen bases in 42 tries and his ability to adapt wherever he’s needed. With experience at six different positions—most often at shortstop—he’s a flexible piece teams can trust defensively. His 84 wRC+ shows he’s not a heavy hitter, but his speed and glove make up for it.
