RADIO
Austin Wells 2024 Player Outlook: Opportunity Could Lead To Value
10 months agoNew York Yankees catching prospect Austin Wells made his MLB debut in the 2023 season and didn't look out of place in doing so. In a small 75 plate-appearance sample, Wells clubbed four home runs and produced a .367 xwOBA alongside 13 RBI in 19 games. He appeared in the three minor-league levels in 2023 before heading to the Bronx as he hit .240 with 17 home runs, seven stolen bases, and a .775 OPS in that time. With Kyle Higashioka now a member of the Padres, Wells and veteran Luis Severino are set to share duties behind the plate in New York. Trevino struggled mightily at the plate before a wrist injury ended his season after just 55 games in 2023. However, he is an excellent defender, which will lead to solid playing time. ATC projects Wells to get more usage than Severino, however, while hitting .232 with 13 HR, four SB, and a .719 OPS in his rookie season. He is currently being taken off the board at around pick No. 326 as he is best left for two-catcher leagues unless he can earn additional playing time and create more value for himself in the 2024 season.
