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Jose Caballero’s Speed and Versatility Lift Yankees After Quiet Deadline Deal

The league steals leader is forcing lineup changes with multi-position defense.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 19: José Caballero #72 of the New York Yankees hits a two-run home run in the second inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on August 19, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
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NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 08: José Caballero #72 of the New York Yankees looks on before the game against the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium on August 8, 2025 in New York, New York.

Overview

  • New York acquired Caballero from the Rays on July 31, and he has quickly shifted from depth piece to near-everyday option.
  • In his last four starts he went 7-for-15 with two home runs, four RBI and four steals, starting twice in right field, once at shortstop and once at third base.
  • Over his first 11 games as a Yankee he has slashed .364/.440/.682 with five steals, and the team is 7-3 in games he has played.
  • He leads MLB with 39 stolen bases this season and has pressured defenses into mistakes, including a key error that sparked a four-run inning against St. Louis.
  • He can handle second, third, shortstop and all three outfield spots and is under contract through 2030 with arbitration beginning in 2026, drawing praise from Aaron Boone and teammates for his disruptive style.