Austin Wells Played Much of the 2026 With a Brain Injury

According to a report from The Athletic, New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells played through severe concussion-like symptoms during much of the 2026 season. Wells sustained blows to the head from foul balls in late April at Fenway Park, leading to head pressure, vision issues, and headaches despite passing concussion tests. Manager Aaron Boone noted he was unaware of the problem until Wells was placed on the injured list with a cervical headache on June 6.

E.J. Fagan argues that Wells' injury pattern resembled Anthony Rizzo's 2023 concussion ordeal, which negatively impacted team performance while the player tried to tough it out. Fagan criticizes the Yankees' handling of injuries and suggests New York should acquire a reliable backup catcher, such as Carson Kelly, to support Wells next season.