Juan Soto Leading off, Aaron Judge Hitting Second: New Lineup Suggestion Falls Flat Amongst Yankees Faithful

The Bronx welcomed Juan Soto with a wave of excitement. Amid the buzz of what one might anticipate at the Yankee Stadium, a recent lineup suggestion has ignited a firestorm. The New York Yankees’ loyal fanbase has debated about the pros and cons of the positioning of two key players Aaron Judge and Soto. 

Some voiced their disapproval, while some supported the proposed lineup. So what is it about this lineup, anyway? Well, it features star slugger Juan Soto batting leadoff, followed by Aaron Judge in the number two spot. Yes, this is an intriguing suggestion. But will this look as good in reality as it does on paper? 

The Projected Outcomes of the Proposed New York Yankees Lineup with Juan Soto Leading Off

Here’s the proposed lineup which aims to maximize at-bats for the team’s most talked of stars. Soto is at the top of the order with Judge hitting directly behind him. The remainder of the lineup is ordered in a descending OBP fashion.

Anthony Rizzo appears to be batting third, trailed by Gleyber Torres, Alex Verdugo, Giancarlo Stanton, DJ LeMahieu, Austin Wells, and Anthony Volpe, in that order. As much as it looks good, there are some underlying aspects that one cannot ignore. 

A majority of the fans expressed concerns about the 25-year-old Dominican’s placement. Granted that the left-handed hitter boasts a career OBP of .404. But while his ability to get on base is unmatched, fans emote that putting him at the top of the order sacrifices potential run production. More so, considering Judge’s power-hitting abilities right behind him.

A good fraction of fans recommended alternative approaches. One suggestion was that DJ LeMahieu lead off against left-handed pitching. That comes with Verdugo taking the leadoff role against RHPs. Another bunch of people voted for a more traditional lineup stating that Soto should bat third, right behind Judge. The rationale behind this possibility is to create a potent one-two punch in the heart of the order. 

Here’s What the Fans Had to Say

Ranging from commending the chosen lineup to criticizing the same, the fans said it all, even stating other possibilities. Not only that, fans even backed up their suggestions with elaborate logic, which makes one wonder if manager Aaron Boone will consider any of this. 

For some fans, it made perfect sense because given what makes it “perfect to see a lot of pitches”

Another fan proposed “I’d love Verdugo leading off” 

More fans spoke purely from the point of view of at-bats.

Even non-fans pitched in with their opinion. 

A couple of more fans expressed “You’re losing out,” bringing in a fresh lens. 

While a lot of these perspectives make sense from their respective point of views, ultimately, it is Boone’s decision. Given that these perspectives pose as interesting statistical options, but it’s clear that many fans have strong opinions on the matter. Rightly so, because their 2023 season disappointed the fans greatly. 

Read More: MLB Spring Training: Juan Soto’s Second Straight Injury Scare Has Yankees World on Edge

Now, whether Boone prioritizes maximizing at-bats or maximizing run production is still shrouded in uncertainty, one thing is for sure. The Yankees faithful are passionate about their team and have a voice in the conversation; more audible than ever before.