Austin Wells makes MLB History with leadoff Home Run on Opening day
Austin Wells rewrites Yankees history as the first catcher to bat leadoff on Opening Day, showcasing his power after a standout spring training.
On Opening Day of the 2025 season, the New York Yankees secured a 4-2 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. Catcher Austin Wells made history as the first catcher in MLB history to hit a leadoff home run on Opening Day, launching a pitch from Freddy Peralta over the right-field wall.
Volpe, Rodón shine as Yankees secure opening day win over brewers
Shortstop Anthony Volpe extended the Yankees' lead with a solo home run in the second inning, also off Peralta. Left-handed pitcher Carlos Rodón delivered a strong performance, allowing one run over 5 1/3 innings and striking out seven, securing the win in his second Opening Day start and first with the Yankees.
In the seventh inning, Aaron Judge contributed with an RBI double, and Cody Bellinger added a sacrifice fly to widen the Yankees' lead. The ninth inning saw late drama as new closer Devin Williams loaded the bases and allowed a run before striking out Jackson Chourio and Christian Yelich to seal the win.
Austin wells makes Yankees history as first Catcher to lead off on Opening day
The Yankees’ Opening Day lineup featured Austin Wells as the leadoff hitter, a historic move as he became the first catcher to hold that spot for the team. This decision reflected his strong spring training performance, where he led the team with six home runs.
This Opening Day victory is particularly significant for the Yankees, considering the challenges they faced in spring training, including key injuries and last season’s World Series loss to the Dodgers. The team's solid performance sets a promising tone for the season ahead.