29-Year-Old Shortstop Finding a Role Beyond Role Player in New York
The acquisition of Jose Caballero at the trade deadline raised eyebrows. This move was a subtle admission by the New York Yankees that Anthony Volpe's disguised health and lack of performance have been holding the team down. Initially, Caballero was expected to be a reliable backup, a role player supporting their prized shortstop. That expectation, however, was quickly challenged.
Cabellero quickly proved to be much more than that. He injected energy into the lineup, stealing bases, scoring runs, and playing a sharp shortstop that highlighted Volpe's struggles. His ability to hit situationally added a much-needed balance to the Yankees’ power-heavy offense. With Caballero in the mix, Volpe suddenly faced real competition. Caballero, known for his war paint and gritty play, left the field each night with a dirt-stained uniform and a reputation for irritating opposing teams—something he clearly enjoys. "It makes me feel really good about what I’m trying to do. I'm trying to make them hate me,” Jose admitted, “I don’t want them to like me. I'm just trying to mess with them.” He has succeeded in this mission statement. The Yankees have posted a record of 25-18 since acquiring the former MLB first-round pick with aggressive trade deadline moves.
As his impact grew, Caballero’s role expanded. In a game against Baltimore to start this series, the Yankees experimented by keeping Anthony Volpe at shortstop, placing Amed Rosario at second, and moving Caballero to third base. This creative attempt paid off as collectively, this threesome had four hits, two walks, scored two runs, and drove in two runs. The lineup shift reflected their commitment to leveraging Caballero’s speed and versatility. This thinking has expanded as the team desires to avoid being a station-to-station team.
Caballero’s climb has not only added depth to the Yankees’ roster but has also sparked a competitive edge previously missing. As the postseason approaches, the Yankees may have found more than just a role player—they may have uncovered a catalyst for a deeper run. Jose has been groomed into a unique role. One that sees him play more regularly as he plays multiple positions, and as a result, Jose is getting the reps and producing. His .265 average since coming to New York is a career high. In only 68 at-bats, he has generated 13 runs scored, 14 stolen bases, 18 hits, and driven in eight runs. As the Yankees enter an uncertain postseason, Jose Caballero has a new role: the position of X-factor. Those are the type of players you want to avoid in short playoff series, and the Yankees have one.
