The trade between the New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers was a major storyline during Opening Day at Yankee Stadium, with familiar faces adjusting to their new teams. Nestor Cortes, who was part of the deal alongside infield prospect Caleb Durbin, reflected on his move to Milwaukee, while Devin Williams secured his first save for the Yankees in their 4-2 win.
However, one key piece of the trade was noticeably absent from the Brewers’ roster—Caleb Durbin. Despite Milwaukee’s high praise for the young infielder, he was optioned to Triple-A Nashville, a move that left some in the Brewers’ clubhouse surprised.
Brewers Players and Coaches Rave About Durbin
Outfielder Sal Frelick admitted that many in the organization were rooting for Durbin to make the team. “Maybe surprised isn’t the right word, but we were all pulling for him,” Frelick said. “He’s a gritty player, tough kid, and a great teammate. He fits the mold we love over here.”
Manager Pat Murphy echoed that sentiment, expressing admiration for Durbin’s skills and attitude. “I love this kid, man. I love him. He’s part of this. I consider him on the team right now, I really do,” Murphy said before Thursday’s game.
Why Didn’t Durbin Make the Opening Day Roster?
If Durbin is so highly regarded, why did the Brewers send him to Triple-A instead of keeping him on the big-league roster?
The decision, according to Murphy, was based on roster flexibility. Vinny Capra, another utility player, does not have minor league options left, meaning if the Brewers had chosen Durbin, Capra would have been exposed to waivers and likely picked up by another team.
“We provide depth,” Murphy explained. “We can’t afford to lose depth either, because depth is expensive sometimes. If we had Durbin on the team, then that kid (Capra) goes away because somebody picks him up. So, we want to preserve that. That’s really the main reason he didn’t make it.”
Durbin’s Path Back to the Majors
Durbin excelled at Triple-A last season with the Yankees’ affiliate and was even viewed as a potential successor to Gleyber Torres at second base before being traded. Now, despite Milwaukee’s enthusiasm for him, he finds himself waiting for an opportunity.
With injuries and roster moves inevitable during the long MLB season, it’s likely only a matter of time before Durbin earns his call-up. Until then, the Brewers are betting on depth, but the 5-foot-6 infielder may not be in Triple-A for long.
