The New York Yankees offense has been electric to watch this season, especially at the top of the order. That said, Oswaldo Cabrera has been starting to hit well desipte being a mainstay in the lower part of the order.
Going into the season, third base was arguably the biggest hole for the Yankees. While Cabrera has started to hit well it looks like he will be out for the forseeable future.
What Happened to Oswaldo Cabrera?
With the Yankees comfortably ahead 10-5 against the Mariners during the game on Monday, Cabrera was on third base after a single earlier in the inning. The utility player tagged up on a deep fly ball from Aaron Judge.
But in his dash for home, Cabrera seemed uncertain about sliding or not, and it looked as if his ankle buckled. He immediately looked hurt and was laying on the grown in obvious pain.
The game was stopped for several minutes, and all the air in the stadium left as he was taken off the field in an ambulence.
It’s a broken left ankle for Oswaldo Cabrera, per Yankees.
He goes on the 10-day IL, DJ LeMahieu activated.
— Greg Joyce (@GJoyce9)
Tests revealed a broken ankle for Cabrera, who was placed on the 10-Day injured list on Tuesday. In his place, the Yankees will activate veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu from the injured list.
Potential Fallout From Oswaldo Cabrera’s Injury
The magnitude of Cabrera’s injury stems beyond on-field production. Cabrera is a favorite amongst his teammates and is a positive clubhouse presence. The mood of players on the field dropped immediately after the incident an lasted through the conclusion of the game. Ceneter fielder even had to wipe tears from his face during a post game interview.
His presence around the locker room as an uber-positive, happy-go-lucky guy will certainly be missed.
Trent Grisham wipes away a tear after talking about Oswaldo Cabrera pic.twitter.com/LktaxXFMir
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks)
On the field, Cabrera is a versatile defender, who can play multiple positions at a high level. He fit right in at third base and was crucial when the Yankees needed him most.
LeMahieu will immedeately shift in Cabrera’s role. The veteran has dealt with a plethora of injuries over that past couple seasons that has really put a halt on his career. His latest injury was a calf strain suffered on the second day of Spring Training.
The 13-year veteran is a multi-batting champion that has excellent bat to ball skills. However, his prodcution has seriously declined in recent years, and 2024 was the worst season of his career.
LeMahieu will play thrid and second base with Cabrera and Jazz Chisholm both on the injured list. Yankees fans have little expectations for the former star, and infield still looks like an area that must be addresed at the deadline.