The New York Yankees fans were not expecting the script to flip like this. As the Yankees lost 6-3 to Boston, they were already frustrated. What added to the frustration was the team’s decision regarding J.C. Escarra.

“Following tonight’s game, the Yankees optioned C J.C. Escarra to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre,” tweeted the New York Yankees official account on X on June 26.

The Yankees confirmed the decision after losing at Fenway Park, even though Escarra did not play in the game. 

Escarra's stint in the minors was brief, as the Yankees recalled him to take the roster spot vacated by Ali Sanchez while he is on paternity leave. The 31-year-old was expected to provide catching depth behind Austin Wells over the next few days, as reported by CBS Sports on June 23. 

He was sent to the minors earlier this month. But he was recalled the following day when Wells landed on the IL due to a head injury. When Wells is expected to be back on Sunday, June 28, Escarra will return to Triple-A.

His move comes after posting a .493 OPS across 91 plate appearances with the Yankees, while Sanchez remains the backup catcher.

Fans are already upset with how the game turned out. The Yankees arrived at Fenway Park for this four-game series with the American League's best record at 48-31. The Red Sox, on the other hand, entered in last place at 32-46. 

Despite the gap in the standings, it was New York that looked out of sorts on Thursday night.

The Yankees committed a season-high four errors, including a rough performance from Amed Rosario at third base. Boston took full advantage, scoring six unearned runs that ultimately made the difference.

Now, with Escarra’s decision, they made their feelings clear in the comments. 

Fans vent frustration over the New York Yankees’ decision about Escarra

After the official confirmation from the Yankees, New York insider Bryan Hoch posted the update on X. In that post, fans expressed their frustration. 

A fan pointed out how Wells was already struggling offensively before going on the injured list and has not improved much since returning. 

“All year long they have had two lefty heading catchers and both are zeros with a bat.  Wells was zero before IL stint since IL stint he has two hits.  With every team thinking they are going to playoffs where do they get a catcher?  And you know the price to yanks will be huge,” read the comment hinting at how it should have been Wells in place of Escarra. 

A fan is hoping that this time, too, Escarra does not have to leave. “He never actually leaves. Something always happens,” the comment read. He is pointing out that even when the Yankees option him to Triple-A, he often ends up back with the big-league club

Catcher has been a weak spot offensively for the Yankees this season, with Wells batting .166 with a .533 OPS across 47 games and Escarra posting a .177 average and .493 OPS in 22 games.

“Yankee catchers are pretty bad right now,” read a comment. 

Against the Red Sox, Wells interfered with the batter's swing, allowing the batter to reach base. “They need to get rid of Wells,” another fan highlighted the mistake. 

While the Yankees have made the decision about Escarra, what do you think of the move? Let us know in the comments. 

Read more at New York Yankees Community.

Written by

Soheli Tarafdar

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar