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Report Says Dominican Republic Is Recruiting Yankees Catcher Austin Wells for 2026 WBC

The outreach, attributed to Nelson Cruz’s remarks to Diario Libre, remains unconfirmed.

Overview

  • Wells is being courted to represent the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, according to coverage citing Nelson Cruz’s comments reported by Diario Libre.
  • Cruz, who manages the Dominican national team, was quoted as saying Wells is excited about the possibility, though neither Wells nor the federations have announced a decision.
  • The catcher is eligible for the Dominican Republic through his mother’s heritage despite being born in Scottsdale, Arizona.
  • Analysis notes a clearer path with the Dominican Republic given Team USA’s depth at catcher, with Cal Raleigh already committed alongside options like Shea Langeliers and JT Realmuto.
  • Recent reporting highlights Wells’ 2025 profile—age 26, 21 home runs, .219 average, 94 wRC+, and improved pitch-framing—and notes he remains focused on the Yankees’ postseason run.