Yankees revitalize following Jose Caballero trade, overshadowing disappointing Oswald Peraza stint
Yankees Acquire José Caballero from Rays for Defensive Versatility and Speed
The New York Yankees have made a trade to bolster their roster, acquiring outfield prospect José Caballero from the Tampa Bay Rays in a deal carried out during a game between the two teams on July 31, 2025.
In exchange, the Yankees sent Triple-A outfielder Everson Pereira and a player to be named later to the Rays. This trade was part of the Yankees' strategy to add versatility and a defensive upgrade at shortstop, providing insurance given Anthony Volpe's recent defensive struggles.
Background of Caballero's Trade
Caballero, a 28-year-old utility player, debuted in MLB with the Seattle Mariners in 2023, showing early promise with 2.5 Wins Above Replacement in 104 games. Traded to the Rays before the 2024 season, he became their Opening Day shortstop option.
While not a strong hitter (.226 average, .640 OPS, 84 wRC+ in 2025), Caballero is known for his speed (leading the AL with 44 stolen bases in 2024 and 33 steals in 83 games in 2025 so far) and defensive versatility. He has played six positions (all three infield spots plus all three outfield spots), with a defensive profile suited best for right field and middle infield positions. He is especially noted for his highlight-reel plays and strong arm.
Comparison to Oswald Peraza
The Yankees also traded infielder Oswald Peraza to the Los Angeles Angels in a separate deal made minutes before acquiring Caballero. Peraza, 25, was once a top prospect but has struggled at the major league level over the past four seasons. In 2025, Peraza has had a poor offensive season, batting just .152 with a .452 OPS and a 26 wRC+ over 71 games.
Peraza's performance contrasts with Caballero’s although Caballero’s offense is also below average. However, Caballero’s value lies in his speed, defensive versatility (six positions), and baserunning aggression, making him more useful as a utility player for the Yankees. Peraza's offensive struggles and lack of success in the majors likely made him expendable, while Caballero’s skill set fits the Yankees’ need for speed and defensive depth, especially in the infield and outfield.
Summary
| Attribute | José Caballero | Oswald Peraza | |-------------------------|------------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Age | 28 | 25 | | Batting Average (2025) | .226 | .152 | | OPS (2025) | .640 | .452 | | wRC+ (2025) | 84 (below average) | 26 (very poor) | | Stolen Bases (2025) | 34 steals in 42 attempts | N/A | | Positions Played | 6 (SS, 2B, 3B, all OF spots) | Infielder (primary) | | Defensive Versatility | High | Limited | | Team Control | Through 2029 | Not specified |
With the acquisition of Caballero, the Yankees hope to strengthen their playoff roster depth. Caballero, who grew up as a Yankees fan, will fill the backup shortstop and third baseman void left by Peraza's departure. The addition of Caballero also gives the Yankees greater roster flexibility due to his remaining minor league options.
Caballero, who led the American League with 44 steals in the previous year and entered Thursday with an MLB-high 33 steals, is excited to join the Yankees. He was seen hugging teammates in the Rays dugout after learning of the trade.
The Yankees have also made other moves, trading Oswald Peraza to the Angels and acquiring third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Rockies. Peraza's role with the Yankees was diminished due to the acquisition of McMahon, leading to his trade.
The Yankees are now poised to make a strong push towards the playoffs with their new additions. Caballero's defensive versatility, speed, and baserunning aggression will be valuable assets as they strive to secure a spot in the postseason.
In this trade, the New York Yankees have acquired utility player José Caballero, known for his speed and defensive versatility, from the Tampa Bay Rays. Having played all six positions in the infield and outfield, Caballero's arrival aims to bolster the Yankees' infield and outfield depth, providing a defensive upgrade at shortstop and insurance for Anthony Volpe amid recent struggles. Concurrently, the Yankees have sent Triple-A outfielder Everson Pereira and a player to be named later to the Rays.
