Catching Coach Reflects on Austin Wells’ Challenges This Season

Austin Wells, the catcher for the New York Yankees, experienced a marked decline in performance during the 2026 season. Despite his solid defensive capabilities, his offensive statistics fell significantly. According to MLB insider reports, catching coach Tanner Swanson provided insights into Wells’ challenges this year.

Swanson pointed out that one of the issues impacting Wells’ season was the negative effects of foul tips. He mentioned, “We obviously value what he brings to the position on a daily basis and we want him out there as often as possible. That comes with increased risk… Just trying to maintain a really tight pulse with the player on how he’s doing and how he’s recovering.” Throughout the 2026 season, Wells had a batting line of .186/.292/.332 with a .624 OPS, hitting 14 home runs in 122 games, compared to his 2025 performance where he slashed .219/.275/.436. Wells expressed that this season did not accurately represent his capabilities as a player. As the Yankees head into a busy offseason, keeping Wells for potential improvement is a possibility, but the organization faces multiple challenges heading into the next season.