An unusual scene unfolded during Thursday’s game between the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays.
The American League East rivals were the only teams in action before Thursday’s trade deadline. While the matchup started at 1:05 p.m. ET, a lengthy rain delay led to them still playing when the trade window shut at 6 p.m.
With minutes to spare, the Yankees and Rays reached an inter-division deal. Tampa Bay sent Jose Caballero to the Bronx Bombers for Everson Pereira and a player to be named later, per YES Network’s Jack Curry.
The Rays pulled Caballero during the seventh inning when they reached a deal. YES Network showed the 28-year-old hugging teammates and saying his goodbyes. A stunned Taylor Walls returned to the Rays dugout after an at-bat to receive the news from Caballero.
Neither general manager might have been watching Thursday’s game too closely.
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Brian Cashman completely reshaped his Yankees bullpen during the day. New York is reportedly adding David Bednar, Camilo Doval and Jake Bird after previously acquiring position players Ryan McMahon, Amed Rosario and Austin Slater.
Meanwhile, the Rays made their own massive bullpen splash at the last minute. Per ESPN’s Jeff Passan, they’re acquiring Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins, who also moved relief pitchers Jhoan Duran, Brock Stewart, Danny Coulombe and Louis Varland.
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Caballero leaves Tampa Bay with a .226/.327/.311, but he’s tied with Oneil Cruz for an MLB-leading 34 stolen bases. He also offers defensive versatility, having played second base, third base, shortstop and the outfield this season. That shortstop experience may give the Yankees a contingency plan amid Anthony Volpe’s defensive struggles.
The Boston Red Sox left the deadline with pitchers Steven Matz and Dustin May. They’re 1.5 games behind the Yankees and five ahead of the Rays after New York’s 7-4 win at Yankee Stadium.
Featured image via Brad Penner/Imagn Images
