The New York Yankees’ third baseman Ryan McMahon entered the 10-day IL on Wednesday. He is reportedly diagnosed with a peritonsillar abscess for which the doctors recommended a 72-hour break from any physical activity. However, while the illness may sound uncommon, McMahon revealed how it was painful for him the last few days, and despite the diagnosis, the risks are still not over.

“It’s just really painful, giving me migraines,” McMahon said ahead of the Tigers game. “I wasn’t able to eat, couldn’t really open my jaw much.”

The $70 million-worth slugger was initially diagnosed with an ear infection and later a throat infection. However, he was in extreme pain for the last week and became worse on Sunday. Doctors then found the abscess and drained it, offering him much-needed relief after a week. This included his suggested 72-hour rest, which would mean a 10-day IL is set.

“I actually feel so much better right now than I did the last 3-4 days. But apparently, there’s a lot more risk involved now that there’s an open wound in there. … After these 72 hours, I should be able to do everything.”

Jun 4, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees third baseman Ryan McMahon (19) follows through on an RBI single against the Cleveland Guardians during the seventh inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn ImagesMcMahon last played on Sunday, and as his IL started backdated to Monday, he would be expected to return on July 3.

“The doctor said they definitely want [McMahon] to be inactive for a few days, so with the two days backdated, it made the most sense,” manager Aaron Boone said.

Per Harvard Health, the condition could lead to complications like pneumonia, airway obstruction, or even a skin infection on the neck and jaw. But as McMahon is now relieved of pain, we hope his July 3 deadline will not be extended. The Yankees relied on Oswaldo Cabrera to fill the roster, and Jose Caballero took over at third base on Wednesday.

Caballero also seemed in pain during his at-bat in the seventh inning. He was seen grabbing near his side, sparking fear among the fans. However, according to Boone, he is “fine.”

In the meantime, the Yankees seem to be planning for some big moves as the trade deadline nears.

The Yankees are projected for a blockbuster trade deadline

No blockbuster trade deadline in 2026 would happen without Tarik Skubal. The Yankees are rumored to have a trade haul for the reigning Cy Young winner.

According to Fansided’s Mark Powell, the Yankees could give up some of their top prospects for Skubal, which could include Spencer Jones. Elmer Rodriguez, Jones, and Kyle Carr could be sent to Detroit for the same. However, Brian Cashman is known for retaining his top prospects, especially someone like Jones, who is projected as the Yankees’ future outfielder. Still, Skubal could make a difference.

Another name could be the Twins’ Ryan Jeffers. He is having a strong season, hitting .295/.408/.541 with a career-high .949 OPS and 7 HRs. Just when the Yankees are missing Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, Jeffers’ power-hitting could come in handy. Let’s now see what the Yankees could get in reality.