​NEW YORK – There are 66 games, 21 series and a lot of suspense remaining in the Yankees’ regular season schedule, which starts up Friday night.And that’s our first date to circle on the Yanks’ unofficial second half calendar.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBeyond some key divisional battles, the are other highlights – including speculative injury return timetables and the MLB trade deadline – to mark as we move out of the All-Star break.Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) hits against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the fourth inning on Sept. 24, 2025, at Chase Field.For some instant drama as the Yankees’ 2026 season resumes, the Los Angeles Dodgers will visit the Bronx for a three-game set.Despite dealing with a left knee issue recently, superstar Shohei Ohtani – who did not participate in the All-Star Game – is expected to be in the Dodgers’ lineup as a DH this weekend.Ohtani’s presence is enough to make this a spotlight series, though there’s no shortage of electricity when the two-time defending world champs arrive.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“It’s going to be a good test for us, and I think we’ve got to try and step up to that an d just play our game,’’ said Yankees starter Cam Schlitter, expected to pitch against the NL West leaders, already a comfortable 11.5 game division lead.Mar 15, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; United States pitcher Mason Miller (19) and United States catcher Will Smith (16) celebrate after defeating the Dominican Republic in a semifinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesThere’s a night game against St. Louis at Yankee Stadium, but all attention will be on the 6 p.m. MLB trade deadline, and how the Yankees can improve their pennant chances.Bullpen help and a catching upgrade have been agenda items, and it’s possible the Yankees add a big bat, given the injuries to Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, or another starter.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBut as was the case at last year’s deadline, relief pitching – especially relievers with control beyond 2026 – is an obvious need.Could that send the Yanks on a serious inquiry of the Padres’ Mason Miller, or knocking on the Mets’ door for pitching and catching help?Any top-of-the-market asks for controllable, top-tier talent means discussing the likes of George Lombard Jr., Spencer Jones and Carlos Lagrange in deals.And will Detroit, in a crowded wild card race, deal ace Tarik Skubal?May 13, 2026; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried (54) delivers during the second inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn ImagesBy now, the Yankees could have starter Max Fried (elbow bone bruise) to start this series against Seattle, with Carlos Rodon (elbow inflammation) to follow soon.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAnd what’s going on with