The Yankees catching situation is one thing that needs to be figured out this spring.
While Jose Trevino is likely going to be the starter when the season begins, his calf injury will delay his spring training by a few weeks. Although the Yanks expect the veteran backstop to be ready for Opening Day, it opens the door for the team’s other catchers to make an impression, including Austin Wells.
Wells, who arrived early at Yankees camp, has impressed since then and when he was called up last September.
"So excited about [Wells’] progress," manager Aaron Boone told reporters on Wednesday. "The progress he’s made as a catcher, defensively, has been more than I expected. For him to get a taste last year went really well from that standpoint. He’s continued to make really good strides this winter to put himself in a position to compete for [a roster spot]."
Boone said that Wells' oblique injury last spring didn’t allow him to see what the 24-year-old catcher can do, but he’s excited to see him more after his cup of coffee in the big leagues.
In 19 games last year, Wells slashed .229/.257/.486 with a .743 OPS. But he went 8-for-20 with three home runs in his final five games.
"I’m confident over time he’s really going to hit, too," Boone added. "We’ll see how it plays out. He’s put himself in a good position to earn some things… I'm excited for where Austin Wells is."
Boone added that he and the team are happy with their catching depth, which includes Ben Rortvedt. With three capable catchers, the Yanks will likely pick just two. And from what Boone said at the start of training camp, it seems Wells has a legitimate shot at winning an Opening Day spot.