Is Austin Wells Emerging as a Strong Contender for AL Rookie of the Year?

The New York Yankees have found an unexpected star in Austin Wells, who has worked his way into the conversation for the American League Rookie of the Year. This season, Wells has delivered consistent performances, making him one of the standout rookies in the league.

AUSTIN WELLS HYPE ME UP pic.twitter.com/2z8BAjDOIq

— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) September 10, 2024

As the Yankees' catcher, Wells boasts a 2.7 WAR, 13 home runs, 49 RBIs, and a .780 OPS over 100 games. Initially the backup, he was thrust into a full-time role when starting catcher Jose Trevino went down with an injury in early July. Wells has risen to the occasion, including a standout performance in the Yankees' recent 10-4 win over the Kansas City Royals, where he drove in four runs with a home run and a double.

With Wells now cemented as the Yankees' cleanup hitter, batting just behind Aaron Judge, he has become a key part of their offense. His contributions include the third-highest slugging percentage and OPS on the team, and he’s fourth in home runs.

Despite BetMGM listing Baltimore Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser as the frontrunner for AL Rookie of the Year (-1100 odds), Wells is not far behind, holding the second-best odds at +700. Cowser has had a stellar season, hitting 20 home runs with 62 RBIs and a 2.3 WAR, but Wells' numbers keep him firmly in the race. Only two AL rookies have a higher WAR than Wells—Wilyer Abreu and Ceddanne Rafaela of the Boston Red Sox, each with 2.9.

The race for the AL Rookie of the Year is heating up, with Wells continuing to impress. The Yankees' next game against the Royals will offer another opportunity for Wells to further his case.

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