Yankees’ Oswaldo Cabrera Leaves Game in Ambulance After Serious Ankle Injury

SEATTLE — What should have been a celebratory night for the New York Yankees turned somber in the ninth inning when third baseman Oswaldo Cabrera suffered a frightening left ankle injury during a slide at home plate. The 25-year-old utility infielder had to be removed from the field by ambulance following the incident, casting a heavy cloud over New York’s 11-5 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Monday night at T-Mobile Park.

Cabrera was attempting to score on a sacrifice fly by Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ star slugger, in the top of the ninth. As he slid into home plate, Cabrera appeared to land awkwardly. After initially sliding past the plate, he reached back with his left leg to tag it, twisting his ankle unnaturally in the process. The moment he made contact, Cabrera grimaced in visible pain and collapsed to the ground. The stadium fell into a stunned silence as trainers and team officials rushed to his aid.

According to Yankees manager Aaron Boone, Cabrera’s injury was deemed serious enough that medical staff opted to stabilize the ankle with a brace before lifting him onto a stretcher. He was transported via ambulance to a local Seattle hospital for further evaluation, accompanied by Yankees athletic trainer Tim Lentych.

“I think everyone understands it was a pretty serious situation,” Boone told reporters after the game. “So, just praying for our guy tonight and hoping for the best. Trust that he’s in good hands as he goes through the night here.”

Boone did not offer specifics regarding the extent of the injury, but the mood within the Yankees’ clubhouse spoke volumes. Teammates, many of whom saw the injury unfold in real-time, were visibly shaken and concerned. While Cabrera’s run capped off a dominant offensive night for the Yankees, it was clear from the manager’s tone and the team’s subdued post-game demeanor that the victory was now secondary.

“It’s tough, man,” Yankees outfielder Giancarlo Stanton said. “You play hard, you give everything, and then something like that happens—it just hits different. Oswaldo’s one of the toughest guys out there, always grinding, always bringing energy. Seeing him go down like that… it hurts.”

Cabrera, known for his versatility and high motor, has been an essential part of the Yankees’ lineup this season. Though primarily listed as a third baseman, Cabrera has filled in across the infield and outfield throughout the year, providing valuable depth and consistency amid various injuries to key players. His enthusiasm and hustle on the field have made him a fan favorite and a respected presence in the clubhouse.

The injury comes at a time when the Yankees have been building momentum, having won seven of their last ten games. Monday’s game against the Mariners was a showcase of their offensive firepower. New York tallied 11 runs on 14 hits, with Judge adding to his MVP-caliber season by driving in three runs, including the crucial sacrifice fly on which Cabrera was injured.

Before his injury, Cabrera had contributed to the win with two hits and a walk, showing once again why he has become an integral part of the team’s success. The play at the plate was emblematic of his aggressive style—pushing the limit to score an extra run even in a game that was largely in hand.

As the Yankees await test results and an official diagnosis, the focus now shifts to Cabrera’s recovery timeline and what it could mean for the team moving forward. A significant ankle injury could potentially sideline Cabrera for weeks, if not months, depending on the severity. For a Yankees team with postseason aspirations, losing Cabrera for any extended period would be a major blow.

Depth within the organization may be tested once again. Utility infielders like Oswald Peraza or Isiah Kiner-Falefa may be called upon to fill the void. The front office may also explore external options should Cabrera’s injury prove to be long-term.

Despite the sobering end to the evening, Boone remained optimistic but cautious. “We’re going to wait until we get the results and go from there. But obviously, when a guy has to leave the field like that, it’s never a good sign,” he said. “He’s a fighter, though. If anyone can come through this stronger, it’s Oswaldo.”

Meanwhile, Mariners players and fans showed class in the aftermath, offering support and well-wishes for Cabrera as he was taken off the field. “You hate to see that happen to anyone, regardless of what team they’re on,” said Mariners manager Scott Servais. “Our thoughts are with him.”

Social media was quickly flooded with messages from fans and fellow players alike, sending prayers and words of encouragement for Cabrera’s recovery. The hashtag #PrayForCabrera began trending within an hour of the incident, a testament to the wide-reaching impact the young player has had in his short MLB career.

The Yankees will continue their series in Seattle on Tuesday, but their minds will undoubtedly be with their injured teammate. Baseball, for all its pageantry and competitive fire, can at times deliver harsh reminders of its physical toll.

For Oswaldo Cabrera, the hope is that Monday night’s injury is not as bad as it initially appeared. But for now, the Yankees and their fans will be holding their breath—and sending their best—to a player who embodies the grit and passion of the game.