Rookie catcher Austin Wells made his major league debut for the New York Yankees in 2023. He debuted in September and left a profound impact on his defensive skills. Wells played regularly in the final month and staked claim for the 2024 season’s everyday lineup.
Moreover, with Kyle Higashioka traded to the San Diego Padres, Austin Wells’ path to the major league is clear. However, lasting throughout the 162-game season is a different ball game altogether. Meanwhile, ahead of the 2024 season, questions over the catcher’s durability are bound to arise. Amid the uncertainty, Yankees catching coach Tanner Swanson ranked Wells’ defensive standpoint highly.
Austin Wells Confident Of Catching In The Big Leagues Ahead Of 2024 Season
A pivotal season is coming up for catching prospect Austin Wells this year. After a splash debut in September 2023, Wells has managed to make a space for himself in everyday life. He is expected to lead the catching depth with Jose Trevino in the 2024 season for the New York Yankees. Amid the uncertainties over Wells’ durability, the catcher backed himself. While speaking to the reporters on the last day of the 2023 season, the catcher said he had proved himself within a short period of time. He gave the Yanks a good chance to win and firmly believes that he is capable of catching in the big leagues. Not only that, Austin thanked the Bomber’s, pitching staff, for making him feel comfortable and placing their unmatched trust.
Besides, Yankees catching coach Tanner Swanson also weighed his thoughts on Austin Wells’s competency. He believes Wells’ confidence stems from his craft. Tanner says the catcher is secure and wasn’t overwhelmed with the big league madness. “I think the on-field performance, at least from a defensive standpoint, I think he’s checked a lot of boxes,” said Tanner Swanson. Having said that, Swanson acknowledges the room for growth and improvement for Austin Wells. He says the catcher has covered his basis. But as when he matures in the major league, his effectiveness behind the plate will also elevate. Overall, Tanner Swanson says Austin Wells is hungry and extremely flexible. “He’s gonna continue to get better,” Swanson added.
Yankees Catcher Resumes Training Ahead Of 2024 Season!
Yankees catcher Jose Trevino was shut down mid-season in 2023 due to a wrist injury. Trevino apparently played through the niggle. He was under the impression that the injury was minor and heal within time. However, the catcher was highly mistaken, as he had to opt for surgery mid-season. Accordingly, Trevino’s 2023 season ended prematurely. Meanwhile, two weeks ahead of spring training, Jose Trevino has resumed training.
Rumors have it that Jose Trevino has resumed hitting. And is expected to participate in spring training without any restriction. The Yankees have summoned catchers and pitchers on February 14 for spring training at the club’s training facility in Tampa. The rest of the squad will join at a later date. Regardless, many players are already in Tampa to begin early preparations for the upcoming season.
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