Austin Wells Fuels Yankees’ Comeback, Completes Sweep of Mariners
A stunning late-game surge led by catcher Austin Wells propelled the New York Yankees to a 6-5, 10-inning victory over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday night, securing a series sweep in The Bronx.
The Yankees, once struggling to find consistency from their young catcher, witnessed a remarkable turnaround from Wells, who delivered a crucial game-tying hit and showcased resilience throughout the contest.
Wells’ Resurgence at the Plate
Early in the season, Wells appeared to be struggling at the plate, prompting questions about his offensive contributions. However, the lefty-swinging catcher has dramatically improved his performance in recent weeks. On Thursday, he proved his value with a two-run single in the bottom of the ninth inning, knotting the score at 5-5. He finished the night with three RBIs, a testament to his growing confidence and impact.
“He looked lost for a while, but not anymore,” one observer noted.
Wells’ offensive explosion continued a trend that saw him homer in three of his previous four games. Against Seattle closer Andrés Muñoz, however, he demonstrated his versatility, driving in runs with a clutch single instead of relying on power.
Dramatic Ninth and Tenth Innings Seal Victory
With the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth, Wells battled through a full count before delivering a single to right field, scoring Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger. Grisham had opened the inning with a base hit, while Bellinger reached on a one-out single, setting the stage for Wells’ heroics.
Earlier in the game, Wells contributed a sacrifice fly, marking the Yankees’ first run of the night while trailing by five. The Yankees’ offense had been stifled for seven innings by Seattle right-hander Bryan Woo, until Jazz Chisholm Jr. broke through with a single in the eighth. Chisholm advanced to third on a hit by Ben Rice, and Wells subsequently drove in the team’s first run.
The game ultimately went to extra innings, where Aaron Judge’s sacrifice fly in the 10th completed the sweep.
From Glove-First to All-Around Threat
Wells’ recent success represents a significant shift from earlier perceptions. Initially, he earned playing time primarily due to his defensive skills and ability to frame pitches. This was a departure from his reputation in the Yankees’ minor league system, where he was known as a “bat-first backstop.”
“It added to his recent stretch in which Wells has come on strong,” a source commented, “after it seemed as if he was in the lineup consistently because of his glove.”
Despite a minor scare in the top of the sixth when he was hit by a foul ball on his left hand, Wells remained in the game and continued to contribute significantly. His ability to shake off the injury and deliver in crucial moments underscored his toughness and determination.
The Yankees’ victory on Thursday night was a testament to Wells’ growth and his emerging role as a key contributor to the team’s success.
