New York — The New York Yankees continue to search for clarity at shortstop as roster questions linger into the offseason, and one internal option has quietly resurfaced. According to reporting from The Athletic, utility infielder Oswaldo Cabrera is being considered for work at shortstop, a development that adds a new layer to the Yankees’ decision-making around Anthony Volpe and the club’s infield alignment.
A position still under review
Shortstop remains one of the most scrutinized positions on the Yankees roster. Anthony Volpe has handled the role regularly, but the organization has not closed the door on alternatives. The Yankees have been linked to high-profile names on the trade market, including Texas Rangers star Corey Seager, yet internal flexibility continues to shape the front office’s approach.
Brendan Kuty of The Athletic reported that Cabrera could factor into the shortstop mix alongside José Caballero, who is currently penciled in for the role.
“That would appear to signal that Jose Caballero, or whoever the Yankees wind up with starting at shortstop to begin the season, could keep the job,” according to Kuty.
Why Cabrera is back in the conversation
Cabrera, a fan favorite in the Bronx, has largely faded from offseason discussions after an injury-interrupted year. His versatility, however, remains valued internally. The switch-hitter has logged time across the infield and outfield during his Yankees tenure, giving the club roster flexibility without making an external move.
Kuty noted that Cabrera is expected to work into the shortstop mix during camp.
“Cashman also said utility man Oswaldo Cabrera would work into the mix at shortstop with Caballero,” Kuty wrote, adding that Caballero is “one of the game’s best base stealers and is a strong defender but has a career .686 OPS.”
Balancing defense, offense, and health
The Yankees face a familiar challenge at shortstop. Volpe brings speed and defensive range, but the organization continues to evaluate offensive consistency at the position. Caballero offers elite speed and glove work, yet his career offensive numbers have drawn scrutiny.
Cabrera does not project as a long-term cornerstone at shortstop, but his profile fits a short-term solution if health permits. Before his injury, Cabrera showed league-average production with the ability to handle multiple defensive assignments. That versatility aligns with manager Aaron Boone’s preference for adaptable lineups, especially during stretches when injuries test roster depth.
Why the Yankees have stayed patient
Despite public speculation, the Yankees left the Winter Meetings without a major infield addition. General manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the club’s desire to improve but stopped short of committing to a blockbuster move. Part of that patience stems from waiting on Cody Bellinger’s free-agency decision, which could impact payroll flexibility and roster construction.
Internal options like Cabrera allow the Yankees to preserve flexibility while keeping pressure on Volpe and Caballero. The approach also reflects confidence that defensive stability can offset offensive inconsistency in the short term.
What it means for Volpe
For Volpe, the development signals competition rather than displacement. The Yankees have not indicated they are ready to move on from him, but the willingness to explore alternatives underscores rising expectations. Defensive reliability remains a baseline requirement, yet the club continues to seek more production at the plate from the position.
Cabrera’s inclusion in the mix introduces another variable. If healthy, he offers a steadier bat than Caballero and positional versatility that Volpe does not provide. That contrast could shape how Boone deploys his infield on a day-to-day basis.
An internal solution with limits
Cabrera’s candidacy comes with clear limits. At 26, he has yet to establish himself as an everyday starter at any one position, and injuries have slowed his momentum. Still, the Yankees value his energy, defensive flexibility, and ability to adapt to changing roles.
As the offseason unfolds, Cabrera stands as a reminder that the Yankees’ shortstop answer may not come from outside the organization. For now, the club appears content to let competition and health determine who lines up at one of the game’s most demanding positions.
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