Judge hitting leadoff against lefties something to deliberate

LAKELAND, Fla. — Aaron Judge hitting leadoff against lefties may sound like a crazy idea. But it’s something Aaron Boone has contemplated, and I don’t think it would be a bad idea for the Bronx Bombers in 2018.

“I’d say it’s possible,” Boone replied Tuesday when asked about No. 99 hitting No. 1 in the batting order when a southpaw is on the mound. “I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s likely, but it’s something that I would view as possible, and it’s something I’ve at least considered and we’ve talked about.”

To be clear, Boone has had Judge hitting second in every spring game the reigning AL Rookie of the Year has played so far, and the manager really likes him in that spot, with good reason, as he hit .327/.465/ .630 in 98 at-bats there last season.

But while Judge may not profile as a prototypical leadoff man due to his stature (6-foot-7) and high strikeout total (208), he does have a leadoff approach. Last season, Judge led the AL in both walks (127) and pitches seen per plate appearance (4.41). His on-base percentage was a staggering .422 in his rookie campaign - including .439 in 113 at-bats against lefties. And 52-home run power plays well anywhere - especially early on, when a starting pitcher is just getting settled in.

Ultimately, the idea of Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Greg Bird (career .257/.346/ .500 vs. lefties) and Gary Sanchez forming the top-4 is highly intriguing if nothing else, the chance to drop a crooked number right off the bat. It would definitely be new-school, that’s for sure. And the first inning is really the only time a manager can truly set his lineup the way he wants it anyway.

For his part, Judge said the Yankees haven’t approached him about hitting leadoff - which he may have done in high school or Little League, “but it’s been a while.” Still, Judge would be perfectly fine with it if asked. And regardless of where he hits, his approach won’t change. “It doesn’t matter if I’m hitting first or last,” Judge said.

The Yankees have a ton of versatile talent at the top of their lineup, which gives Boone a ton of things to consider - including Judge hitting leadoff against lefties, which wouldn’t be a bad idea.

“You could shuffle this lineup up, put us anywhere, and it’s going to be a good lineup,” Judge said.

John Raoux / Associated Press Aaron Judge is willing to bat anywhere in the New York lineup — including in the leadoff position.