Wells has been a seasoned contributor but has struggled at the plate, slashing .206/.264/.408 with 15 HR and 56 RBI across 94 games. His defensive duties persist, but his offensive dip heightens the Yankees’ need for Goldschmidt and the reliability Rice offers as backup.

Wells subbed in late, signaling growing trust in his bat behind the plate and at corner infield. His involvement points to a broader NYY plan to leverage his versatility as the infield reshuffles around Goldschmidt’s potential IL stint, with implications for UTIL and catcher eligibility in fantasy rosters.

Wells logged at-bats for NYY in Tuesday’s win and remained in the mix during Goldschmidt’s irregular playing time, signaling that Wells could earn more regular plate appearances if the IL option becomes reality. His development behind the plate and in the box could lift NYY’s DFS and roto upside during a potential Goldschmidt absence.

Wells started behind the plate while Wells was on the bench, with a return expected as Stanton and Volpe anchor the lineup. Wells’ development behind the dish could unlock more consistent offense from NYY’s catchers, and his usage hints at depth behind the rotation and in the middle of the lineup.

Wells is highlighted for his catch-work and a recent run of notable defensive miscues alongside Chisholm Jr.’s baserunning flubs. His development behind the plate matters for the Yankees’ overall defensive stability and run suppression, while his offensive upside could lift with increased playing time.