Yankees named trade fit for NL East catcher who could finally replace Austin Wells

The New York Yankees need a right-handed hitting catcher like a fish needs water. 

Currently, they have Ali Sanchez backing up J.C. Escarra while starter Austin Wells is on the injured list with cervical headaches. 

Before heading to the IL, Wells was having an abysmal season at the plate. Escarra hasn't been any better, and both players hit from the left-handed side of the batter's box. 

The Yankees will almost certainly be in the market for another backstop at this year's trade deadline, and The Athletic's Jim Bowden linked them to a reunion with a former prospect of theirs. 

"However, I think more realistic options include Ryan Jeffers of the Twins (once he gets healthy), Agustín Ramírez of the Marlins, Joey Bart of the Pirates, Carson Kelly of the Cubs, Gabriel Moreno of the Diamondbacks and Keibert Ruiz of the Nationals," Bowden wrote. 

A reunion with Ramirez? Not likely

Any of the listed players could create competition for playing time with Wells, despite the Yankees' confidence in him to handle the pitching staff. 

The Yankees could reunite with Ramirez, who was involved in the blockbuster trade that sent Jazz Chisholm Jr. from Miami to New York. 

Ramirez is a poor defender and figures to be a full-time first baseman or DH down the road. He hit 21 home runs during his rookie season and boasts impressive bat speed. 

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The Yankees may not have the patience to wait for his defense to come around. In 2025, Ramirez tallied minus-28 blocks above average. 

So, of all the catchers Bowden listed above, Ramirez appears to be the least likely to come to the Yankees. The pitching staff needs someone with a better track record heading into the postseason. 

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