Why the Yankees need to solve their catching conundrum 

The New York Yankees have a decision to make behind the plate.

Catcher Austin Wells has developed into a solid defensive backstop despite questions about his viability at the position while ascending through the Yankees system. Wells ranks second in the American League with eight runs saved as a catcher and has thrown out 26.4% of would-be base stealers (the league average is 21.6%). He has become a valuable part of the Yankees' defense and someone the pitching staff can trust behind the plate.

While Wells has impressed with his defense, his offense has taken a step backward in 2025. Although Wells has 18 homers and 16 doubles, he has posted a disappointing .206/.263/.421 batting line in 373 plate appearances thus far.

Catcher/first baseman Ben Rice is on the opposite end of the spectrum. He has been one of the Yankees' best hitters this season, posting a .246/.342/.497 batting line in his 428 plate appearances, hitting 22 homers and 21 doubles.

Rice has been mediocre at best defensively. He has been exactly replacement level defensively, neither saving nor costing the Yankees any runs. However, he has only thrown out 18.8% of would-be base stealers, causing the Yankees a different set of problems.

This puts the Yankees in a difficult spot. Although they have shaken off a slow start to August and have won nine of their last 12 games, the Yankees are in a difficult battle for a playoff berth. The Yankees need Rice's production, but they also need Wells' defense behind the plate.

Injuries have further complicated matters. Outfielder Aaron Judge has a flexor strain in his right elbow and has been relegated to DH duties, forcing Giancarlo Stanton into the outfield. Rice has made 34 appearances at first in an attempt to keep both of their catchers in the lineup. That arrangement pushes first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who has posted a solid .284/.336/.430 batting line with 10 homers and 30 doubles in 464 plate appearances, to the bench. 

For now, this arrangement has worked. The Yankees have been able to juggle playing time to keep Wells, Rice and Goldschmidt in the lineup. Ultimately, the Yankees will need to make a decision as to which is more valuable — Rice's offensive production or Wells' defense. Whichever they decide could have a significant impact on their postseason hopes.