José Caballero was preparing to take batting practice near the visiting dugout at Yankee Stadium when he learned he had been traded. The infielder, who started the day with the Tampa Bay Rays, quickly said his goodbyes and joined the New York Yankees during their 7-4 win in the Bronx.
Caballero described how fast events unfolded. “Everything happened so quickly,” Caballero said. “You have to pick up and move over, switch teams. And now you’ve got to give your best and hopefully bring a championship to this city — something that I’m sure the fans are expecting, and have been expecting for a long time.”
The trade was completed after a lengthy rain delay. The Yankees acquired Caballero in exchange for outfielder Everson Pereira and either a player to be named later or cash considerations.
Rays manager Kevin Cash informed Caballero of the deal. Cash commented on Caballero’s value: “I’ve said it for many, many years now,” Cash said. “Cabby does a lot to help you win baseball games, whether it’s defensively or on the bases, coming up with the big hit here and there.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone noticed activity in the visiting dugout but did not immediately know if New York had finalized a deal for Caballero. “I saw him hugging people,” Boone said. “I knew we were definitely in the picture, so I figured maybe that was the case, but I wasn’t sure.”
Caballero is tied for first place in Major League Baseball with 34 stolen bases this season. He has played several positions for Tampa Bay this year—including second base, third base, shortstop, and all three outfield spots—while posting a .226 batting average with 12 doubles, one triple, two home runs and 27 RBIs across 86 games.
Boone spoke about what Caballero will bring to New York: “I think he brings a lot to the table,” Boone said. “I think he’s going to be a very useful player for us. He’s a scrappy, tough player. I’m really excited to have him in the mix.”
After being traded midgame—a rare occurrence—Caballero admitted mixed emotions about leaving Tampa Bay while joining New York: “I really enjoyed my time with the Tampa Bay Rays,” Caballero said. “I really enjoyed taking advantage of everything that they offer you as a player. So all of that runs through your mind. At the same time, I’m getting a great opportunity with the New York Yankees. I’ve always been a fan of the Yankees.”
When asked about his favorite player growing up as a Yankees fan, Caballero replied: “Derek Jeter,” adding a smile.
Reflecting on his unusual day—playing second base for Tampa Bay before ending it as part of New York’s winning clubhouse—Caballero added: “We won the game, I guess,” Caballero said, with a laugh. “That’s what I feel right now.”
