The Yankees are about to make history on Opening Day by doing something they’ve never done in a regular season game – batting a catcher in the leadoff spot.
Austin Wells has been getting reps at the top of the order throughout Spring Training, even launching a home run to start Friday’s game. It’s a sign the Yankees are seriously considering this unconventional move when the real games begin.
What makes this interesting is Wells doesn’t fit the traditional leadoff mold. He’s not exactly fleet of foot – his sprint speed ranked in just the 31st percentile among MLB players last season. But in today’s game, leading off isn’t all about speed anymore.
The 25-year-old left-handed hitter brings what modern baseball values most: he gets on base. Wells walked at an 11.4 percent clip last season (47 free passes in 414 plate appearances) and showed legitimate power with 13 home runs.
His .229 batting average in 2024 wasn’t spectacular, leading to a modest .322 on-base percentage, but the Yankees clearly believe there’s untapped potential. They’re willing to try something no Yankee manager has ever done before – pencil a catcher into that leadoff spot.
The vacancy at the top of the order opened after Gleyber Torres’ departure. It’s a crucial role considering Aaron Judge bats second – his power becomes significantly more valuable with someone on base ahead of him.
The Yankees do have speedier options like Jazz Chisholm and Anthony Volpe, but manager Aaron Boone seems to prefer their bats in the middle of the lineup. That’s where Wells comes in, potentially making history atop the lineup card when the season begins.
