Austin Wells has emerged as a strong candidate for the American League Rookie of the Year award with the 2024 MLB season just weeks away. The Yankees catcher contributed significantly to the success of the Bronx Bombers this year when he took over as the primary catcher after Jose Trevino suffered a quadriceps injury earlier this season. Wells also often plays the Yankees’ cleanup hitter position behind Juan Soto and Aaron Judge, providing much-needed protection for their two superstars.

After hitting a three-run homerun that broke the deadlock in the bottom of the seventh inning to give the Yankees a 10-4 comeback win over the Royals on Monday, Wells now has odds of -140 at FanDuel Sportsbook to win the award. award, ranked ahead of Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser. He also emerged as one of the best defensive catchers in baseball with a +11 Run Block Value, fourth in baseball.