The New York Yankees defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-5 at Yankee Stadium after a benches-clearing incident in the eighth inning. The confrontation stemmed from frustration with José Caballero’s use of the pitch timer.
José Caballero and Dennis Santana exchanged words after Caballero grounded into a double play. Both benches and bullpens briefly cleared before order was restored.
Caballero defended his approach, saying it was within the rules and aimed at gaining an edge. “If you get frustrated, I’m winning,” he said.
Santana, who pitched for the Yankees in 2024, explained his irritation came from the pace at the plate. He noted the need for quicker play in baseball.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone suggested more hitters should use similar tactics to disrupt pitchers.
