Jose Caballero made a short trek from his former team to his new one when the Rays traded him to the Yankees during their game on Thursday afternoon.
The transition took a bit longer than expected, as a YES Network camera caught him saying goodbye to his old Tampa Bay teammates.
The Yankees acquired Caballero in a trade, sending outfielder Everson Pereira along with other players or cash considerations to the Rays.
Though Caballero played for five innings, the Rays had taken the lead in the seventh as news of his trade to the Yankees broke.
The camera recorded his emotional farewell moments in the dugout—he hugged several teammates and seemed to share the news with Taylor as he returned after hitting.
Taylor looked quite surprised as Caballero informed him of the situation.
Prior to that, Caballero had a brief goodbye with Brandon Lowe, suggesting a heartfelt exchange.
Thursday also marked the last game of the four-game series between the Yankees and the Rays, so Caballero wouldn’t have to face his old team immediately.
Caballero adds speed to the Yankees, who have swiped 34 bases in 42 attempts this season. He also provides some extra depth in shortstop, having played multiple positions this year: 31 games at shortstop, 27 at third base, and 17 at second.
Additionally, he appeared in 35 games in the outfield this season.
On the trade deadline day, the Yankees were quite active, also making headlines by acquiring Kamilo Doval from the Giants, significantly restructuring their bullpen.
