The New York Yankees are in a straight-up desperate hunt for a new catcher, no kidding. They absolutely need a right-handed bat behind the plate, and according to The Athletic’s Chris Kirschner, it is a “must” for them to find one this winter. This ain’t simply about depth; it’s about a complete offensive upgrade, especially against southpaws.
The Catcher Conundrum in the Bronx
Right now, Austin Wells is their main guy, but listen to this: he posted a measly 19 wRC+ against left-handed pitching in 2026. Nineteen! That just ain’t gonna cut it when you’re facing tough southpaws. Then there’s Ali Sanchez, who is the primary backup, but let’s be real, he offers “little upside on offense.” They *could* keep Sanchez for depth, sure, but the front office knows they gotta find a veteran who can bring some real numbers to the plate. Kirschner is not messing around when he says adding a right-handed platoon partner is “necessary.” They need someone who can step up when the lefty comes out of the bullpen or gets the start.
Carson Kelly Is the Real Deal, and He’s Available
So, who is that guy? Kirschner laid it out: 11-year veteran Carson Kelly, who just spent the last two years crushing it with the Chicago Cubs, is their “best and most realistic option available.” Why? Dude is expected to decline his $7.5 million mutual option with the Cubs and hit free agency. That means he’s up for grabs! And his numbers? Get this: Kelly dropped a massive 143 wRC+ against left-handed pitching *this season*. His career mark against lefties is a solid 123 wRC+. That’s exactly the kind of production you want backing up or platooning with Wells. Plus, the Yankees aren’t only about the bat; Kelly also “grades out well in blocks above average,” according to Statcast, and he’s “slightly above average in framing,” which is a “key metric” for them when they scout catchers. It’s clear: the Yankees would feel totally confident that Kelly can give them “above-average production against southpaws,” and that’s huge.
What Happens Next for the Yankees’ Catching Hunt?
Sure, there are other backstops out there they *could* kick the tires on: Ryan Jeffers, Tyler Stephenson, Austin Hedges, or maybe even a reunion with Gary Sanchez or Kyle Higashioka. But Kirschner made it crystal clear: Carson Kelly is the guy to watch. He is exactly what they need to shore up that right-handed hitting catcher spot this winter. The clock is ticking for the Yankees to get this “must” signing done.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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