Jose Caballero: MLB | Position | Stats | Contract | Wife | Age

Jose Caballero is quickly making a name for himself in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a promising infielder known for his speed, defensive prowess, and hustle. While he may not yet be a household name, Caballero is proving he’s a player to watch. This article delves deep into his professional journey, current statistics, position, contract details, personal life, and more. Whether you’re a Seattle Mariners fan or just an MLB enthusiast, here’s everything you need to know about Jose Caballero.

Who Is Jose Caballero?

Jose Caballero is a Panamanian professional baseball player currently playing in Major League Baseball (MLB). He made his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2023 and has quickly impressed fans with his scrappy playing style and all-out hustle. Born in Panama City, Panama, Caballero represents a growing wave of international talent making its mark in American baseball.

Quick Facts:

• Full Name: Jose Caballero
• Born: August 30, 1996
• Age: 28 (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Panama City, Panama
• Bats/Throws: Right/Right
• MLB Team: Seattle Mariners (debuted in 2023)
• Position: Second Base / Shortstop
• Nationality: Panamanian

Jose Caballero’s Position in MLB

Jose Caballero primarily plays as a second baseman but is versatile enough to fill in at shortstop and third base when needed. His ability to adapt across the infield gives managers a lot of flexibility.

Fielding Highlights:

• Known for quick hands and footwork
• Solid arm strength, especially at shortstop
• Above-average range at second base
• Frequently involved in double plays
• Often used as a utility infielder due to his adaptability

Caballero’s defensive skills have made him a valuable asset off the bench and as a spot starter. His instincts, hustle, and athleticism allow him to make highlight-reel plays and cover a lot of ground.

Jose Caballero’s MLB Stats

2023 MLB Season (Rookie Year with Seattle Mariners):

• Games Played: 104
• Batting Average: .221
• Home Runs: 4
• RBIs: 26
• Stolen Bases: 26
• OBP (On-Base Percentage): .343
• OPS: .666
• WAR (Wins Above Replacement): 1.5

2024 Season (Partial):

• Batting Average: .243
• Home Runs: 5 (as of July 2025)
• Stolen Bases: 21
• OBP: .355
• WAR: 2.1

Stat Overview:

Caballero’s ability to get on base and steal bags makes him a valuable spark plug at the bottom or top of the batting order. He may not hit for much power, but he creates chaos on the base paths and adds significant value through defense.

Jose Caballero’s Career Progression

Amateur Career:

Jose Caballero played college baseball at Chipola College in Florida. There, he gained attention for his defensive skills and aggressive approach on the field. He was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 7th round of the 2017 MLB Draft.

Minor League Development:

• 2017: Hillsboro Hops – Short Season A
• 2018-2019: Climbed the Diamondbacks’ minor league system
• 2019: Traded to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for Mike Leake
• 2020: Minor league season canceled due to COVID-19
• 2021-2022: Played for Arkansas Travelers (Double-A) and Tacoma Rainiers (Triple-A)
• 2023: MLB debut with Mariners

Despite not being considered a top prospect, Caballero forced his way onto the roster through consistent performance and hustle. His path reflects the grind and resilience that defines many underdog success stories in baseball.

Contract Details: How Much Does Jose Caballero Make?

Jose Caballero is still in the early stages of his MLB career, which means he’s under team control and playing under pre-arbitration salary rules.

Contract Snapshot (2025):

• Status: Pre-arbitration
• 2025 Salary: ~$740,000 (league minimum estimate)
• Arbitration Eligible: Beginning in 2027
• Free Agent: 2030 (projected)

Caballero isn’t yet eligible for arbitration, which means the Mariners have control over his salary and roster status. If he continues to perform, he’s likely to receive a substantial pay raise through arbitration in a few years.

Personal Life: Who Is Jose Caballero’s Wife?

As of 2025, Jose Caballero has maintained a relatively private personal life. While there have been occasional mentions of him being in a relationship, there is no verified public information confirming if he is married or has a wife.

Media & Relationship Status:

• Not publicly married
• No confirmed spouse or children
• Maintains a low social media presence
• Focused on his baseball career

Caballero appears to prefer a low-key lifestyle, keeping his focus squarely on his professional responsibilities. Fans may know less about his off-field life, but it adds to the mystique around the scrappy infielder.

Jose Caballero’s Age and Physical Stats

Jose Caballero was born on August 30, 1996, which makes him 28 years old in 2025. He’s currently entering the prime of his career, with plenty of upside remaining.

Physical Attributes:

• Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
• Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg)
• Build: Athletic, compact
• Speed: Above-average
• Endurance: High-energy player known for hustle

Caballero’s size may not be imposing, but his athleticism and determination allow him to punch above his weight class.

Jose Caballero’s Playing Style and Strengths

Caballero’s playing style is defined by grit, speed, and versatility. He doesn’t hit for much power, but he finds ways to impact the game through bunts, walks, stolen bases, and defense.

Strengths:

• Speed: Steals bases and puts pressure on defenses
• Versatility: Can play multiple infield positions
• Defense: Smooth hands, fast reactions
• Hustle: Never takes a play off
• OBP skills: Works deep counts, gets on base

Weaknesses:

• Power: Limited home run ability
• Batting Average: Can struggle against elite pitching
• Strikeouts: Needs to improve contact rate

Jose Caballero in the Mariners’ Future Plans

The Seattle Mariners have a competitive roster with a mix of veterans and young talent. Caballero’s utility and team-first mindset make him a valuable piece, especially in matchups that require speed and defense.

2025 Outlook:

• Projected Role: Utility infielder / defensive replacement / bench spark
• Potential: Regular starter at second base or shortstop
• Competition: Faces competition from prospects and veterans, but has carved a niche

Manager Scott Servais and GM Jerry Dipoto have praised Caballero for his work ethic, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him earn an expanded role if he continues to develop.

International Career and Representation

As a Panamanian, Jose Caballero is part of a growing group of MLB players from Panama. He’s proudly represented his country and could be a part of international competitions such as the World Baseball Classic (WBC).

Panama and Baseball:

• Panama has produced MLB legends like Mariano Rivera, Carlos Ruiz, and Rod Carew
• Caballero is one of the few active MLB players from Panama
• Potential face of Panamanian baseball for the next generation

What Fans Love About Jose Caballero

Jose Caballero has quickly gained a loyal fan base thanks to his playing style and attitude. He’s the kind of player who dives into the stands, sprints down the line on routine grounders, and turns singles into doubles.

Fan-Favorite Traits:

• Plays with fire and passion
• Doesn’t back down from any challenge
• Underdog story resonates with fans
• Blue-collar, hard-nosed approach
• Great clubhouse presence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What position does Jose Caballero play?

He primarily plays second base, but he can also play shortstop and third base as needed.

2. How old is Jose Caballero?

As of August 2025, he is 28 years old, born on August 30, 1996.

3. Is Jose Caballero married?

There is no public confirmation about him being married or having a wife.

4. What are Jose Caballero’s MLB stats?

As of mid-2025, he has a career batting average of .232, with 9 home runs, 47 RBIs, and 47 stolen bases.

5. What is Jose Caballero’s contract status?

He is in the pre-arbitration stage and earning the league minimum (~$740,000 in 2025). Arbitration eligibility begins in 2027.

Conclusion

Jose Caballero may not be a superstar just yet, but he’s exactly the kind of player every team needs: versatile, hardworking, and unrelenting. From his journey through the minor leagues to his growing role with the Seattle Mariners, Caballero is carving out a respectable MLB career.

Whether it’s making a clutch play at second, stealing a timely base, or working a tough walk, Jose Caballero brings value every time he steps on the field. As he enters his prime years, expect him to continue evolving — and maybe even become a breakout player for the Mariners in the near future.

For now, fans can enjoy watching one of the most energetic and determined players in baseball continue to make his mark on the big stage.