TAMPA — So, who among the Yankees’ double-play pair has been discussing Aaron Boone as the season kicks off?
“He plays with tremendous confidence. I sometimes feel the need to dial back that confidence a bit, but it’s just part of his talent. When he’s on the field, he believes he’s the best out there,” a statement that could easily apply to Jazz Chisholm Jr.
However, the statement was actually about Jose Caballero, who will kick off the season as the Yankees’ starting shortstop alongside Chisholm, at least until Anthony Volpe recovers from shoulder surgery during the offseason.
The Yankees experienced Caballero’s contributions during the last couple of months last season, especially highlighted by his speed on the bases, versatility in the field, and solid defense as a backup shortstop. Now, he has the chance to amplify that impact with a full-time role as the season begins.
“That’s beyond my control,” Caballero remarked when asked about the shortstop situation following his home run in a 6-4 loss to the Mets. “I can only focus on what I can control. I’m just going to strive to do my best every day. The decisions are up to them.”
The truth is, even if Caballero struggles early in the season, the Yankees are likely to give a healthy Volpe the opportunity to reclaim the starting shortstop position.
Since late last year, amid discussions on whether Caballero should replace Volpe, the team has viewed him as most effective when he’s serving as the tenth man, a valuable asset off the bench.
Yet, Caballero has the potential to influence some interesting decisions regarding his playing time.
Boone mentioned, “He’s skilled in various positions, and his quick-twitch muscles definitely contribute to his ability to steal bases. He’s dynamic on the bases. We want him with the ball, no matter where he plays.” He further noted Caballero excels in both the outfield and infield and brings a lot to the table as a bench player late in games. “He’s critical for the success of our team,” he added.
Boone paired Caballero and Chisholm on Sunday for the second time in three games and intends to have them play together for a few more games this week as they both prepare for the World Baseball Classic—Caballero with Panama and Chisholm with Great Britain.
On a positive note, they have shared experience as young players in the Diamondbacks organization. They were traded away eventually, but reconnecting as Yankees seemed to bring back that familiarity quickly.
“He’s not hesitant to make his own plays,” Chisholm observed. “A lot of guys reach the majors or come to New York and alter their game, losing themselves in the process. That’s what’s great about him—he embraces who he is. It elevates his overall game.”
This holds true for Chisholm as well, and perhaps it’s that shared confidence that strengthens their bond.
When asked by a reporter whom he felt more confident in, between Caballero and Chisholm, Boone jokingly quipped that he was more confident in Clark Schmidt.
Caballero, who led the majors last season with 49 stolen bases, certainly has that spark, though Chisholm showcases more power. Still, Caballero did hit a home run off Justin Hagenmann on Sunday, reminding everyone of his own power potential exhibited during batting practice.
“I can hit the ball hard,” he commented, adding a slight hesitation, “though it doesn’t always show up in games. I’m working on being more consistent.”
