Yankees first-round pick Austin Wells grew up a Red Sox fan

Yankees 2020 first-round draft pick Austin Wells is going to have some work to do when it comes to earning the respect of New York fans.

The University of Arizona product was selected by the Yankees with the 28th overall pick during Wednesday's draft, and he was probably hoping he'd be picked up by New York's biggest rival.

Wells, who grew up just outside of Las Vegas, admitted that the Boston Red Sox's 2004 postseason run turned him into a fan of the team.

“Yes, I was a Red Sox fan growing up,’’ Wells said, via USA Today. “I think everybody’s mind changed (Wednesday) night after hearing my name called. I’m definitely a big Yankee fan now.’’

The 2004 Red Sox team was historic, rallying from a 3-0 deficit to defeat the Yankees in the ALCS and sweep the St. Louis Cardinals to win their first World Series since 1918. 

Wells was drafted as a power-hitting catcher and hopes to continue playing the position at the professional level. However, he also noted he's willing to switch positions to make his dreams come true if it comes down to it.

This wasn't the first time the 20-year-old was selected by the Yankees, either. Wells was picked in the 35th round by New York in the 2018 MLB Draft, but elected to play college baseball at Arizona.