Red Sox Newcomer Caleb Durbin Explains Last-Minute Uniform Change

Infielder switched from No. 17 to No. 5 ahead of Opening Day

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:48pm

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An abstract, energetic painting in a vibrant expressionist style, depicting a baseball player in motion with bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the raw energy and dynamism of the sport.Caleb Durbin's switch to the iconic No. 5 uniform signals his desire to make a lasting impact with the Red Sox.Boston Today

Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin, who was acquired via trade with the Milwaukee Brewers in February, explained his decision to switch his uniform number from No. 17 to No. 5 on the eve of Opening Day. Durbin said he's "always been more of a single-digit kind of guy" and previously wore No. 21 during his rookie season with the Brewers in 2025 and No. 5 in college and the minors.

Why it matters

Uniform numbers can hold significance for players, and Durbin's switch to the iconic No. 5 worn by many Red Sox greats in the past could be seen as an attempt to establish himself as a key part of the team's future.

The details

Durbin, who was acquired by the Red Sox on Feb. 9, originally selected No. 17 but decided to change to No. 5 just before the start of the 2026 season. The change was reflected on the team's official roster on the eve of Opening Day.

  • Durbin was acquired by the Red Sox on Feb. 9, 2026.
  • Durbin changed his uniform number from No. 17 to No. 5 on the eve of the 2026 Opening Day.

The players

Caleb Durbin

A Boston Red Sox infielder who was acquired via trade with the Milwaukee Brewers in February 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I've always been more of a single-digit kind of guy”

— Caleb Durbin, Red Sox Infielder

The takeaway

Durbin's switch to the iconic No. 5 uniform could signal his desire to make a lasting impact with the Red Sox and establish himself as a key part of the team's future.