In a historic move, Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced that catcher Austin Wells will bat lead-off on Opening Day, marking the first time in the franchise's 122-year history for a catcher. Wells has had an impressive spring training, boasting a batting average of .372 and .426 on-base percentage. He brings speed with 40 career stolen bases and finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting last season. Boone emphasizes the importance of getting on base for the leadoff role, and Wells is well-suited for the spot before star hitter Aaron Judge.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced that catcher Austin Wells will lead off on Opening Day—historically, the first catcher to do so in 122 years.
Austin Wells has impressed during spring training, batting .372 with a .426 on-base percentage, confirming Boone's belief in his ability as a leadoff hitter.
Boone highlighted that getting on base is the most important criterion for the leadoff spot and seems confident in Wells’ skill set for this role.
Wells also brings speed to the lineup, boasting 40 career stolen bases which fulfills an essential requirement for a leadoff hitter.
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