sportingnews
The New York Yankees find themselves in need of an upgrade at the catcher position, a fact that is widely acknowledged. Austin Wells has been one of the worst hitters in Major League Baseball this season, and backups Ali Sanchez and J.C. Escarra have not provided strong offensive alternatives. As the trade deadline approaches, general manager Brian Cashman and the front office are expected to seek either a platoon partner for Wells or a new starter.
However, according to The Athletic's Chris Kirschner, the Yankees still highly value Wells' relationship with the pitching staff and his defensive abilities behind the plate. This could influence New York's strategy in acquiring another catcher. Kirschner reported, citing multiple team sources granted anonymity, that while the Yankees are likely to add a catcher, it would be surprising if they made a trade at the top of the market due to their confidence in Wells.
Key Analysis
Integrating a new catcher midseason is notoriously difficult, but for the Yankees, it seems necessary. Kirschner noted that Wells is the second-worst hitter in MLB among players with at least 230 plate appearances, trailing only Colorado's Ezequiel Tovar. The Yankees cannot afford to rely on Wells as their starting catcher in the postseason. Cashman understands the need for an upgrade and is focused on finding the right fit.
Originally reported by sportingnews.