New York Yankees’ Catcher Eyes Injury Return, 2022 Platinum Glove Winner Set to Battle for Starting Role

Hidden behind the newfound greatness of their outfield, is the ridiculous richness of catchers that the New York Yankees possess. Part of the reason for that depth staying in the shadows was the constant barrage of injuries to Jose Trevino. The platinum glove-winning catcher hasn’t been able to catch a break since the middle of 2023. While those injuries have proven to be a blessing for Austin Wells, Trevino’s now looking to stage an epic comeback in the Pinstripes.

Jose Trevino took part in a minor league game on Saturday. The 31-year-old had five at-bats and is looking to slowly regain his lost form. With Trevino set to make his Spring Training debut on Sunday, he had a lot to comment on his “long, long road” to comeback.

In an interview with the New York Post, Trevino talked about the ridiculous catching depth in the Yankees (5 catchers in a 40-man roster). The slugger had a few words for Austin Wells as well, the rookie who is taking the world by storm this Preseason. With positional competition intensifying, Trevino is excited about returning to the plate as quickly as possible.

“It’s no secret that catchers are now being built in this organization from the ground up. From guys that get drafted to guys that are in big league camp,” Trevino shared. Last season, the former Gold Glove winner could play only 55 games due to an urgent wrist surgery. The player had tried to power through that injury until it became too tough to bear.

“I think the biggest thing I bring to the table is that I’m a competitor. I’m just ready to join the team we’ve got right now. It’s an exciting time to be a New York Yankee,” declared Trevino. The Yankees are looking forward to his return as well.

Read more: Austin Wells’ Potential New Role Could Open the Door for Ben Rice, Yankees’ Next Big Name Behind the Plate

How Jose Trevino and Austin Wells can script a great Yankees tale

While Jose Trevino called the 24-year-old Wells a “terrific ballplayer,” the Yankees know they can’t win without Trevino. Nestor Cortes Jr. made a great comment. “The guy’s an All-Star…He’s a guy that, on the field, is really good, but off the field he brings a lot of qualities into the clubhouse…” Cortes continued. “Obviously [Wells] did a great job with me, but having [Trevino] back is a big piece for us.”. 

While Wells’ recent Spring Training performances have raised expectations, he’s still just a rookie. That’s one of the reasons why Trevino’s presence is so important for the Bronx Bombers. An experienced hand like him could help in scripting an even higher growth in the rookie. 

Luckily Trevino agrees with the fact that his presence is important. The catcher declared, “I just want to help the team any way I can.” So as it stands, the Pinstripes’ World Series aspirations have gotten another push.

Read more: Oswald Peraza’s Injury Compound Yankees’ Infield Depth Concerns Beyond Cabrera