George Springer has been a strong leadoff hitter throughout his career, with 60 career leadoff home runs. This places him second on the all-time list behind Rickey Henderson. Last season, Springer recorded 87 hits, smashed 12 bombs, 33 RBI and scored 50 runs across 101 games when he was hitting in the leadoff spot. It would ultimately benefit the Blue Jays if they shook up the lineup and made him the leadoff man again. In addition, this would give other guys such as Daulton Varsho, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Anthony Santander more chances with runners in scoring position. Springer has had a rough May (.176), but if he can improve his offensive numbers in June, this is something that they can revisit.
Springer has also hit 14 home runs and owns a .846 OPS in games Toronto has won, showing he’s often a contributor to Jays victories. He has largely shown a resurgence offensively since last season. The four-time All-Star, Silver Slugger and 2017 World Series winner and WS MVP will be looking to make an impact next month as the All-Star break approaches.
GEORGE SPRINGER LEADOFF HOME RUN NUMBER 60 pic.twitter.com/NLTpW2BNI4
— Gate 14 Podcast (@Gate14Pod) August 21, 2024
George Springer Batting Leadoff Could Spark Blue Jays Offense
Springer’s Leadoff Stats
- Career Leadoff Home Runs: 60, second most in MLB history.
- 2024 Leadoff Batting Average: .214 (407 plate appearances).
- 2024 Leadoff OBP: .291.
- 2024 Leadoff OPS: .640
While his numbers from the leadoff spot were subpar last season, Springer’s better overall numbers this year suggest he could help set the table for the Jays offense by moving back to the top slot. One example of Springer’s fortitude at the top of the lineup came in 2023, when he worked a 13-pitch at-bat before capping it with another leadoff home run. But if the Blue Jays want to capitalize on his success this year, they may want to think about utilizing him in different ways, such as moving him around the lineup.
While Springer isn’t quite the player he was when he played for the Houston Astros, his defensive caliber makes him a solid option to have in the outfield. His hustle, speed, and urgency also make him a viable option to have leadoff. Even if Springer doesn’t consistently hit in the leadoff spot, they could switch it up and place him there when they see his offense coming alive. It’s been unfortunate that Springer hasn’t been able to get into a consistent groove at the plate in May, but when he’s on the money by providing clutch at-bats, he’s the complete package. His ability to draw walks also makes his appeal to hit leadoff stand out. In his last seven games, he has recorded four walks with a stolen base and three hits.
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