Who Will Protect Aaron Judge in the Lineup?
With Giancarlo Stanton possibly out for the season due to tendonitis in both elbows, the New York Yankees have been left searching for someone to bat behind and protect Aaron Judge. The big question is: who will step into that role?
As the team heads into Opening Day, the answer has finally been revealed. Cody Bellinger, the veteran slugger the Yankees signed as a free agent this offseason, appears to be the chosen one. Bellinger has impressed with an outstanding spring performance, making him a strong candidate to bat behind Judge.
Bellinger’s Spring Performance: In 43 at-bats this spring, Bellinger has posted remarkable numbers: .465/.511 batting line, with three home runs, seven RBI, and an OPS of 1.302—all ranking near the top of the team. His plate discipline and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him the ideal hitter to protect Judge in the lineup. With Bellinger hitting behind him, Judge will likely see more hittable pitches, and the Yankees will benefit from a consistent No. 2 hitter in the lineup.
Who Will Bat Behind Bellinger? While Bellinger seems like the perfect fit for the No. 3 spot, who bats behind him is still a question mark. Paul Goldschmidt could be the obvious choice, but manager Aaron Boone has hinted that Goldschmidt might bat leadoff against left-handed pitchers, which creates an interesting dynamic at the top of the lineup.
Current Certainty: The one clear decision is that Aaron Judge will bat No. 2, with Cody Bellinger following him at No. 3. While the Yankees are still figuring out the rest of the lineup, Bellinger’s strong spring gives them confidence in his ability to protect Judge and help provide stability in the middle of the order.
Cody Bellinger will bat behind Aaron Judge and be the Yankees’ primary No. 3 hitter, per sources. Batting .465 with a 1.301 OPS this spring, so not exactly a surprise.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 21, 2025