Yankees Consider Aaron Judge as Leadoff Hitter

Slugger's on-base skills make him an unconventional but intriguing option atop the lineup

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:27am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic energy of the sport.The Yankees' unconventional consideration of slugger Aaron Judge as a leadoff hitter reflects the team's creative approach to maximizing its offensive potential.NYC Today

The New York Yankees have experimented with several different players in the leadoff spot to start the 2026 season, including Ben Rice, whose .468 on-base percentage was second on the team. But some within the organization are now suggesting that star outfielder Aaron Judge could be an unconventional yet intriguing option to bat first, given his elite on-base skills to go along with his prodigious power.

Why it matters

Traditionally, leadoff hitters are known for their speed and ability to get on base, setting the table for the heart of the order. However, the Yankees' struggles to find a consistent table-setter have led them to consider unorthodox options like the power-hitting Judge, whose combination of patience and pop could provide a unique dynamic atop the lineup.

The details

Through the first 22 games, the Yankees have used four different players in the leadoff spot, with Rice being the latest. While Rice's .468 on-base percentage is impressive, some within the organization believe Judge's elite plate discipline and on-base skills could make him an intriguing fit at the top of the order, even if it means sacrificing some of the speed typically associated with leadoff hitters.

  • The Yankees have used four different leadoff hitters through the first 22 games of the 2026 season.

The players

Aaron Judge

A star outfielder for the New York Yankees known for his prodigious power and elite on-base skills.

Ben Rice

A Yankees player who has recently been used in the leadoff spot, posting a .468 on-base percentage prior to Sunday's game.

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The takeaway

The Yankees' willingness to consider an unconventional leadoff hitter like Aaron Judge highlights their ongoing search for a table-setter who can maximize the team's offensive potential, even if it means straying from traditional lineup construction.