An interesting thing about Spring Training is that one gets to see unusual partnerships being formed. Just recently, pictures of the New York Yankees’ newly acquired outfielder Juan Soto and the captain Aaron Judge bonding together went viral. Yet again a report has revealed another surprising connection being formed inside the Bombers’ Clubhouse – the Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole and the rookie catcher Austin Wells.

Wells and Cole were perhaps one of the few silver linings in the Bombers’ 2023 season. However, they never actually played together last year. So it’s not only surprising but a little eye-opening to see how Cole has put all his trust in this 24-year-old this early in the Spring Training.

The Gerrit Cole – Austin Wells connection shines through

One of the most beautiful aspects of baseball is the deep relationship that’s shared between a pitcher and his catcher. The two need to be at similar wavelengths all the time. It’s a game of perfect coordination. So it’s no surprise that pitchers usually stick with only one catcher, so it’s astonishing to see that Cole has chosen Wells this season. As The Athletic reports, in the absence of Jose Trevino, instead of turning towards Ben Rortvedt, Cole “immediately teamed with Wells”.

It’s notable because, by the end of last season, Cole was almost exclusively working with Rortvedt. That partnership was one of the big reasons for Cole’s Cy Young award. So this change is completely out of the left turn. However, if one looks deeper into this, it becomes easier to understand why this has happened.

Despite Rortvedt being a better defender, his position in the Yankees isn’t as secure as last season. The sudden rise of Wells plus the less-than-satisfactory hitting prowess of Rortvedt has made things difficult for him. So with the rookie expected to split games with Trevino, it becomes important to create a connection with him.

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However, even after such speculations – baseball remains an uncertain sport. Wells knows that quite well, as can be guessed by his recent comments.

The New York Yankees rookie catcher continues to compete

Despite relative positivity around him, Wells has shared how he’s still competing for the spot. When asked if he feels secure, the rookie said – “I definitely don’t feel secure. Every day, I’m competing for a job and competing to be on the roster. I think that’s what everybody’s doing here.” While he is competing, this connection with Cole does bode well for Wells’ future. 

It’s exciting to see the Yankees’ veterans finding ways to connect with the new generation. Certainly, this Cole and Wells connection looks promising. The Spring Training games are starting soon, so hopefully it won’t be long before they’re on the field together.

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