J.C. Escarra’s road to the New York Yankees was anything but typical. Just a year ago, the 29-year-old catcher was driving for Uber, substitute teaching, and giving private baseball lessons to make ends meet. Today, he’s gearing up to back up Yankees’ star catcher Austin Wells on Opening Day. His rise is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and an unshakable belief in his dream.
From the Independent Leagues to the Bronx
Escarra was originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 15th round of the 2017 MLB Draft out of Florida International University. Though he showed promise in the minors, he never advanced beyond Double-A, and in 2021, the Orioles released him.
Determined to keep his dream alive, Escarra played in independent leagues while taking on odd jobs to support himself. He drove for Uber, worked as a substitute teacher, and gave hitting lessons to young players.
“I had to make money somehow, and no one was going to take away my home from me,” Escarra told reporters. “I knew I had to make those payments, so I was doing anything it took.”
His big break came in the Dominican Winter League (LIDOM), where he put together a phenomenal season, winning the league’s batting title with a .363 average. That performance caught the attention of the Yankees, who signed him to a minor league deal in January 2024 and invited him to spring training.
Earning a Spot in Yankees Camp
Escarra entered Yankees camp as a long shot, but he quickly turned heads. He hit .333 in spring training with 3 HR, showing not only a solid bat but also strong defensive skills behind the plate.
His perseverance was finally rewarded when Yankees manager Aaron Boone called him into the office and told him he had made the team.
From Uber driver to substitute teacher to the Yankees in 2025.
J.C. Escarra’s journey continues in the Bronx 💙 pic.twitter.com/9Nk7wbwqlW
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 22, 2025
The Call to His Mom
The defining moment of Escarra’s journey came when he called his mother to share the news. In a now-viral video, he can be seen fighting back tears as he tells her, “We did it, mom. We’re going to New York.”His mother’s reaction was pure joy, her screams of happiness echoing through the phone. For Escarra, the years of struggle, uncertainty, and hard work had all been worth it.
The moment @jcescarra told his mom that he made it to The Show 🥹 pic.twitter.com/Rc9X4sPOdf
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 22, 2025
As he prepares to step up to the first baseline alongside his teammates on Opening Day, Escarra’s journey to the Bronx serves as an inspiration—a reminder that no dream is too far out of reach.
