Aaron Boone drops a strong 14-word message about J.C. Escarra before his first MLB start with the Yankees

Aaron Boone knows the New York Yankees’ final game of the series against the Diamondbacks is special, as J.C. Escarra will make his first MLB start with the team. But the manager also made clear what a player like Escarra means to everyone in the organization.

In his pregame remarks before the series finale, Boone highlighted Escarra’s impact, using a strong 14-word phrase: “He brings a confidence and an energy to the field with him every day,” the manager said, emphasizing what the young player could bring to the team in the game.

It’s worth noting that Escarra spent the last decade grinding for this opportunity. He admitted there were times he considered walking away from baseball—until just a few weeks ago, when his addition to the Yankees‘ roster was confirmed.

Escarra’s first taste of MLB action came earlier this season in the Yankees’ opening series, where the Bombers rolled to a 20-9 victory. But his personal debut was quiet—he went 0-for-2 with a strikeout, failing to notch a hit or drive in a run.

J.C. Escarra #79 of the New York Yankees bats in the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays during a Grapefruit League spring training game at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 21, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

Ten Solid Years Paved Escarra’s Path

Reaching the majors is no easy feat, and Escarra knew how to stay healthy and grind through years with small teams across multiple leagues before finally breaking into MLB. Before turning pro, he logged 468 games in the minors, 181 in foreign leagues, and dozens more across AAA, AA, and independent ball—proving his relentless commitment.

see also

15 MLB's highest-paid coaches: Dugout dynasties with sky-high salaries

His spring training performance made it clear he was ready for the next step: 7 runs, 16 hits, 3 homers, and 8 RBI with a .302 AVG and .849 OPS. As a defensively reliable catcher with offensive upside, he brings exactly what the Yankees need right now—a hungry, productive backstop who’s earned every opportunity.