The 30-year-old rookie backstop victimized right-hander Chad Green for his 415-foot (105.0 mph EV) solo shot, extending the Yankees’ lead to 5-1 and costing teammate Luke Weaver a shot at a save. Escarra also delivered a run-scoring single in the sixth inning, finishing the night 2-for-4 with two RBI. On the season, he’s now slashing .200/.310/.400 with one homer and three RBI in his limited action.

A certifiable defensive wizard behind the plate, Escarra is the favorite to open the season as New York’s backup catcher as the primary caddy to starter Austin Wells. He’s drawn rave reviews in camp for his prowess behind the plate and it wouldn’t be shocking to see him start the year in the big leagues as a 29-year-old rookie.

Escarra has earned a chance to become the Yankees’ backup catcher, but it hurts his case that he, like Austin Wells, is a left-handed hitter. The 29-year-old, who was released by the Orioles in 2022 before turning to indy ball and driving for Uber, is 5-for-17 so far this spring.

The Yankees had a few spots open on their 40-man roster and decided to protect a few players on Sunday. Escarra, 29, had a solid season across two minor league levels in 2024, slashing .261/.355/.434 with 12 homers, 64 RBI and a 68/55 K/BB ratio over 493 plate appearances.