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Aaron Boone Confirms Judge’s Move Back to No. 2 Spot
The New York Yankees are making a key adjustment to their batting order in 2025, and it involves their captain, Aaron Judge. After spending last season in the No. 3 spot to accommodate Juan Soto, Judge is set to return to the No. 2 hole—a position he has occupied for most of his career.
Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the decision during an appearance on the Foul Territory podcast.
“Right now, I’m hitting Judgey second just because we are very left-handed,” Boone explained. “Especially with Giancarlo (Stanton) out.”
This move is significant, as modern analytics suggest that the No. 2 spot is one of the most valuable positions in the lineup. Hitters in this role see more at-bats over the course of a season and often get more opportunities with runners on base.
Who Will Protect Judge in the Lineup?
With Judge locked into the No. 2 spot, the bigger question is who will bat behind him in the No. 3 position. Boone admitted that decision is still up in the air.
“It could be Jazz (Chisholm Jr.) or it could be (Cody Bellinger), it depends. It could be different if we’re facing a lefty,” Boone said. “So I don’t know yet.”
Both players bring unique strengths to the table. Chisholm, known for his speed and power, could be a solid fit, though his on-base percentage isn’t ideal for a leadoff hitter. Bellinger, on the other hand, has the left-handed power that the Yankees want in the middle of their lineup. If he can tap into his 2019 National League MVP form, he could be a perfect complement to Judge.
Why Hitting Second Makes Sense for Judge
Traditionally, a team’s best hitter would bat third, but statistical analysis has shifted that thinking. Studies suggest that a top hitter in the No. 2 spot can add five to 15 extra runs over a season due to increased plate appearances and better scoring opportunities.
Judge has already proven himself comfortable in this role, having started 529 of his 993 major league games hitting second. With his combination of power and on-base ability, the Yankees are maximizing his impact by keeping him there.
A New Look Yankees Lineup
With Stanton sidelined and Soto no longer in the Bronx, the Yankees are embracing a new offensive identity. Their left-handed depth will play a major role in determining how the lineup shakes out, especially when facing right-handed pitchers.
The final decision on who bats behind Judge remains uncertain, but whether it’s Chisholm, Bellinger, or another candidate, the Yankees are hoping this new arrangement will keep their offense firing on all cylinders.