José Caballero Steps Up as Yankees’ Shortstop Amidst Volpe’s Recovery
The New York Yankees face a shift in their lineup as Anthony Volpe recovers from shoulder surgery, sidelining him for the start of the 2026 season. Stepping into the role of starting shortstop is José Caballero, a versatile player poised to make his mark.
A Familiar Face in the Bronx
Caballero isn’t a flashy name, but he embodies a profile historically valued by the Yankees: a versatile, competitive player willing to contribute consistently. He joined the Yankees through a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays in July 2025, sending outfielder Everson Pereira to Tampa Bay.
Caballero’s Impact in 2025
In 40 games with the Yankees last season, Caballero showcased his abilities, posting a .266 batting average with a .372 on-base percentage, three home runs, and an impressive 15 stolen bases in 95 at-bats. His speed and defensive versatility quickly made him a valuable asset.
A History of Speed and Versatility
Prior to joining the Yankees, Caballero honed his skills with the Seattle Mariners and Tampa Bay Rays. He’s known for his agility in the field and his ability to play multiple positions, including the outfield. He led the league in stolen bases in both 2024, and 2025.
MLB Career Stats
Throughout his MLB career, Caballero has a .228 batting average with a .316 on-base percentage, 18 home runs, and 119 stolen bases. Whereas he hasn’t been a full-time starter, his utility and speed have consistently contributed to his teams.
What the Manager Says
Yankees manager Aaron Boone recognizes Caballero’s confidence as a “gift,” though sometimes needing to temper it. Caballero himself acknowledges the situation is out of his control, stating, “I control what I can control. I’m gonna head out there and do my best every day, and they make the decisions.”
Contract Details
Caballero is under contract with the Yankees through 2029, earning $2 million in 2026 and will be eligible for arbitration from 2027 to 2029.
The Volpe Factor
While Caballero has the opportunity to establish himself, the Yankees are expected to deliver Anthony Volpe a chance to reclaim his starting role once he’s fully recovered. Although, if Caballero performs well, it will be difficult to remove him from the lineup. He has already hit a home run this spring.
A Panamanian Legacy
José Caballero hails from Panama City, Panama, a country with a rich baseball tradition that has produced legendary players like Mariano Rivera. Caballero’s journey began with showcasing his defensive agility and energy in the infield at a young age.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will José Caballero remain the shortstop when Anthony Volpe returns? The Yankees are likely to give Volpe a chance to regain his starting position, but Caballero’s performance will heavily influence the decision.
- What are Caballero’s strengths? His speed, defensive versatility, and ability to get on base are his key strengths.
- How long is Caballero’s contract with the Yankees? He is under contract through 2029.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Caballero’s stolen base numbers – his speed could be a game-changer for the Yankees’ offense.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Yankees’ season and Caballero’s performance. Explore more articles on our site for in-depth coverage of MLB news and analysis.
