Yankees’ Austin Wells out against Rangers after painful hit-by-pitch

New York Yankees’ Austin Wells tosses his bat after hitting a double against the Texas Rangers during the third inning of the first game of a baseball double header, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, in New York.
AP Photo/Noah K. Murray

Table of Contents

Austin Wells was absent from the New York Yankees’ lineup for Tuesday’s game against the Texas Rangers, following a hit-by-pitch incident in the previous game.

What happened to Austin Wells

The rookie catcher was hit in the right hand by a 95-mph fastball from Rangers reliever Chase Anderson during the Yankees’ five-run sixth inning on Monday. Wells immediately dropped to one knee outside the batter’s box, prompting fears of a potential fracture that could sideline him for several weeks.

“Wells got crushed,” Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton said.

Initial medical examinations, including X-rays, showed no fractures, but Wells is reportedly dealing with soreness. He may require a few days off, but his status remains uncertain. The Yankees have not provided a specific timeline for his return.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone decided to rest Wells against Texas left-hander Andrew Heaney, with Jose Trevino taking over catching duties for Tuesday’s game.

The 24-year-old rookie remained in Monday’s game after being hit, showing signs of pain but continuing to play, suggesting he avoided serious injury. Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole described the team’s reaction as one of concern. “I was a little nervous, to be honest,” Cole said. “When the hitter makes a forward move to the ball and then meets the ball, that’s usually not a good sign. But it seemed to calm down for him on base. We were holding our breath there.”

Wells, a rising prospect in the Yankees’ system, has been an integral part of the team’s lineup since his call-up. His absence, even if short-term, adds to the Yankees’ list of injuries late in the season as they fight to remain competitive in the American League standings.

The Yankees are still assessing Wells’ condition, and his availability for the upcoming games will depend on how quickly he recovers. With several crucial games ahead, the team hopes the injury is minor and Wells can return to the lineup soon.

Meanwhile, the Yankees continue their series against the Rangers with a cautious approach, balancing the need to compete with the importance of player health as the regular season winds down.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x

Join the Pinstripes Nation!

Your Daily Dose of Yankees Magic Delivered to Your Inbox

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Don't Miss Any of the Latest Yankees News, Rumors, and Exclusive Offers!