Yankees activate C Austin Wells from IL, recall P Elmer Rodríguez to give starting pitchers extra day of rest

“It felt a little sturdier,” Wells said, via MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch. “Whatever was going on this year, it wasn’t really working. I’ll try everything.”

The headaches are believed to be at least partially responsible for Wells’ poor start to the 2026 season. Before going on the IL, he had a slash average of .166/.278/.255 with 4 home runs and 7 RBI in 169 appearances. Last season, Wells batted .219/.275/.436 with 21 homers, 22 doubles and 71 RBI.

Cervical headaches — or cervicogenic headaches — result from head pain caused by a cervical spine injury such as a slipped disk or arthritis, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

In Wells’ absence, J.C. Escarra was the Yankees’ primary catcher. In 32 games, he compiled a triple-slash line of .188/.239/.271 with five doubles and 7 RBI. He was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Sunday to clear a spot for Wells on the Yankees’ roster.

Ali Sánchez will remain the Yankees’ other catcher, providing a right-handed bat with Wells. He’s batted .313/.353/.375 in eight games, starting five of them.