Oswaldo Cabrera’s mindset after a gruesome leg injury gives a clear look into how he views his role on the New York Yankees. Unfortunately, injuries are part of baseball. From strains and tears to fractures, players know what could happen every time they take the field.
Still, they lace up their cleats and step out there, never knowing what any given play will bring. People forget that not every big leaguer makes millions. Many play for a decent paycheck, the love of the game, and the bond with teammates. Cabrera’s comment to the team’s biggest star shows exactly where his priorities lie — rooted in team success, no matter what.
Oswaldo Cabrera Displays Team-First Mentality Despite Gruesome Injury
If you don’t follow the Yankees, you might not know Cabrera’s name. The third baseman has struggled at the plate, posting a career average of .234. He has little power and below-average plate discipline.
Nevertheless, Cabrera has stuck on the roster because of his defensive versatility and glove work. He’s not a highlight-reel player, but every Yankees player in that clubhouse would run through a wall for him.
On Monday, May 12, against the Seattle Mariners, in what looked like a non-contact injury, Cabrera went down with a serious left leg issue as he approached the plate. His foot appeared to catch in the dirt, causing his leg to bend at an awkward angle. Cabrera then collapsed face down next to home plate.
Even in that moment, the only thing on his mind was the team. According to a tweet from YES Network, Aaron Judge shared what Cabrera said before being taken to the hospital.
"He called me over and asked 'Did I score?' Kinda shows you the type of guy he is."
– Aaron Judge on what Oswaldo Cabrera said to him before being sent to the hospital pic.twitter.com/mpKIBnCM7J
— YES Network (@YESNetwork)
No one knows how long Cabrera will be out or the full extent of the injury, but what’s clear is that he was thinking about the team — even in a game the Yankees had well in hand.
That run may not have meant much in the box score, but moments like that can lift a clubhouse. Whether you play Legion ball or MLB, the bond between teammates always matters.
Judge looked genuinely moved in the interview — like someone who holds Cabrera in high regard. Star players are crucial, but it’s the role players who do the gritty work — taking the extra base, bunting for a hit, tagging up on a shallow fly ball.
Superstars like Judge may win the game, but it’s players like Cabrera who make that job easier.