Oswaldo Cabrera clings to possibility of return as Yankees deal with positional crisis

The versatile New York Yankees player broke his silence after the serious injury that left him out of action and put his future in doubt for the 2025 season.

The incident occurred in Seattle, when Cabrera scored a run after a sacrifice fly, as when he stepped on the plate, his ankle buckled dramatically and he fell to the ground with a look of pain on his face.

Cabrera was immediately taken to Harbour View Hospital, where studies confirmed a fracture with ligament damage. An injury that required surgery with plates and screws, so it was thought it could be the end of his career. However, the Venezuelan’s fighting spirit has come to the fore.

Cabrera keeps the faith in his return

Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, Cabrera is determined to return: “I’m happy to see what my teammates are doing out there, but I want to be with them on the field. That’s my motivation,” he said.

He was recently seen in the Yankees locker room riding a scooter, in good spirits and with hope intact. He said he expects to make a full recovery, although he recognizes that the chances of returning this season are virtually nil.

Before the injury, Cabrera had won the starting job at third base, a position now provisionally held by Jazz Chisholm. Chisholm, who has historically played second base, a position now covered by DJ LeMahieu, so on his return he will have to win back his place based on good performances.

In 34 games played this year, Cabrera was hitting .243/.322/.308 with one home run and 11 runs batted in. Although his statistical contribution was not spectacular, his energy and, above all, his versatility made him a key player on the team.

When will Oswaldo Cabrera return?

Manager Aaron Boone was cautious when talking about a possible return of the player in what remains of the season

We are not necessarily expecting it, but you never know how it will heal in the coming months

Boone

He also stressed that Cabrera is fully committed to his rehabilitation process, but made it clear that the club will not force him to return before his time.

Meanwhile, the player remains positive, working on his rehabilitation, and admitted that being off the field has him “bored”, but he has also taken the time to share with his father and his fiancee, and even to plan his wedding.

Against all odds, Cabrera hopes to return in record time and play again with the Yankees for the end of the season: “I want to be out there with them. That’s what I’m working for,” he said.