The New York Yankees are actively seeking starting pitchers as the trade deadline approaches. With key players like Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt sidelined, the Yankees are exploring options to bolster their rotation, particularly targeting Dylan Cease, who may be available. Despite a challenging season, Cease boasts a solid track record, having finished in the top five of the Cy Young voting twice since 2021. A potential trade involving catcher J.C. Escarra could address both teams' needs; the Padres require an upgrade at catcher, while Escarra's opportunities with the Yankees are limited.

Even with recent struggles, Cease could provide a reliable option behind frontline starters Max Fried and Carlos Rodón. This move would alleviate reliance on less experienced pitchers in pivotal October games. The Yankees' pursuit highlights their commitment to contending this season, balancing the immediate need for starting pitching with the long-term potential of their young players.

The New York Yankees are facing a surplus of hitters, with one or two talented bats often benched during games. This situation might catalyze a trade before the deadline, despite the Yankees being seen as buyers. A potential trade candidate is catcher J.C. Escarra, whose impressive journey from driving an Uber to the big leagues has caught the attention of several teams. Known for his elite pitch framing and defensive skills, Escarra is valuable even as a backup catcher. With Austin Wells and Ben Rice also capable of filling the catcher role, the Yankees may opt to trade Escarra, leveraging his feel-good story and defensive prowess to enhance their roster.

As the Yankees gear up for a pivotal three-game series against the Athletics, manager Aaron Boone is still undecided on his Sunday starter. The options are Marcus Stroman and Allan Winans, both of whom were set to throw side sessions on Friday. Stroman, struggling with a 6.97 ERA in his rehab starts after knee inflammation, faces pressure after his latest outing, where he allowed five earned runs in 3.2 innings. Winans, who debuted in the majors with a 0.90 ERA in Triple-A, allowed four runs over 4.1 innings in his first start but has shown promise.

The Yankees will be without J.C. Escarra due to paternity leave, and Boone indicated they might not make any roster moves, as Escarra is expected back Sunday. Additionally, utility player Braden Shewmake and outfielder Everson Pereira are also unavailable, adding to their challenges as they face left-handed pitcher JP Sears. Boone confirmed that Jonathan Loáisiga is still recovering from an illness, which could further limit the bullpen options.

J.C. Escarra's unlikely journey to the MLB has taken a remarkable turn, transitioning from Uber driver and substitute teacher to a player on the New York Yankees roster. After years of perseverance through independent leagues and winter ball, Escarra finally made his big league debut in March 2025. His impressive performance includes a strong batting average and a stellar ERA for Yankees pitchers who throw to him, solidifying his place in the roster.

Recently, Escarra was placed on the paternity list, marking another significant milestone in his life as he prepares to become a father. This season has been transformative for him, showcasing not just his athletic ability but also his dedication and hard work to realize his dream of playing in the majors.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone's recent decision to replace struggling infielder Oswaldo Peraza in a critical moment paid off when backup catcher J.C. Escarra secured a walk-off victory against the Padres with a sacrifice fly. Boone's gamble was met with mixed reactions; while some fans lauded his boldness, others questioned his faith in Peraza, who has struggled significantly this season. With DJ LeMahieu's imminent return, the competition for infield spots is intensifying, and Peraza's future with the Yankees could be at stake.

Peraza, a former top prospect, has underwhelmed with a .213 batting average and has become a liability at the plate. Boone's choice to trust a backup catcher over him raises questions about how the team views Peraza's potential as well as the overall depth of the lineup. As roster decisions loom, Peraza's position becomes increasingly precarious, particularly with LeMahieu's return and the promising performances from other infielders.