Austin Wells' journey from a defensive question mark to a reliable Yankees catcher is a testament to hard work and determination. Initially, scouts saw Wells' path to the majors through his bat, predicting a future in the outfield or as a designated hitter. But Wells had other plans, and he’s proved the skeptics wrong with his defensive growth.
Reflecting on his early days, Wells admits his catching skills needed work. “I was terrible,” he candidly shared about his early framing and blocking abilities. Fast forward to 2025, and Baseball Savant ranks his framing as third best in the majors, with blocking skills improving steadily.
Wells’ rapport with Yankees pitchers, from pre-game strategy to in-game calls, has been a standout feature. “The communication and understanding the game behind the plate was always my strength,” Wells noted.
His presence was evident from his first big-league camp, leaving a lasting impression on manager Aaron Boone. “He just had an ability to interact with guys,” Boone recalled, recognizing Wells’ big-league potential even before his debut.
Despite early doubts about his catching, Wells’ defensive skills have developed remarkably. Boone remembers initial concerns about Wells’ readiness when he was first called up in 2023, but Wells exceeded expectations.
By 2024, he was a reliable part of the Yankees' catching mix, complementing Jose Trevino. His understanding of game plans and ability to work with top-tier pitchers have solidified his reputation as a strong defensive catcher.
Wells credits his progress to the Yankees’ emphasis on framing and the guidance of catching instructor Tanner Swanson. “Their accountability and my drive to be great at the position fueled me,” Wells explained. His transformation from a one-knee-down setup to a proficient catcher is a testament to his dedication and the team's support.
Interestingly, Wells’ bat, once his calling card, has been inconsistent. While he posted impressive power numbers with 21 homers and 71 RBIs, his batting average and on-base percentage left room for improvement. Boone sees potential for offensive growth, noting the challenges of balancing hitting with the demanding role of a major league catcher.
Wells acknowledges the difficulty of focusing on his offense while prioritizing his pitchers. “I’m still a work in progress,” he admitted, striving to balance his defensive responsibilities with his at-bats. His commitment to his pitchers is evident, but he’s working on flipping the switch to offense more seamlessly.
Off the field, Wells is embracing exciting changes. He became a father in December and is set to represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, honoring his family heritage. While Boone would prefer Wells to stay in camp, he understands the value of this unique opportunity.
As Wells prepares for the upcoming season, he’s aiming for consistency at the plate. “I know what I’m capable of,” he stated, confident in his ability to deliver offensively. With his defensive skills now a strength, Wells is eager to showcase his full potential as a complete player for the Yankees.