Joe

The best player on every single team should bat leadoff in every single game. In 2024, across MLB, leadoff hitters had 10,711 plate appearances with the potential to either tie the game or take the lead — 957 more than three-hole hitters. This includes additional opportunities in high-leverage scenarios. Plate appearances with the ability to tie the game or take the lead across MLB in 2024: During the entire game: Batting 1st - 10,711 Batting 3rd - 9,754 (+9.81% for leadoff) After the 1st inning: Batting 1st - 6,130 Batting 3rd - 5,426 (+12.97% for leadoff) From the 7th inning on: Batting 1st - 1,921 Batting 3rd - 1,751 (+9.71% for leadoff) From the 9th inning on: Batting 1st - 685 Batting 3rd - 604 (+13.41% for leadoff) The conclusion is clear: to maximize your best player’s impact on the game, you want them in the most critical situations. The leadoff spot creates more opportunities to influence the outcome, whether early in the game, late in the game, or in high-leverage moments. By placing your best player at the top of the lineup, you're ensuring they receive the maximum number of chances to make a difference — especially when they can change the course of the game.