LINEUP OUTLOOK: MJ Melendez and Tommy Pham are batting first, could Joey Meneses provide power?

With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, many teams will adjust lineups for the stretch run, or provide players with auditions for 2023. Two different batters will be featured in this week's lineup outlook who have eyes on batting leadoff for their respective teams. Plus, those seeking a power boost may benefit from a late-age breakout in Washington, though it's a limited sample size. 

MJ Melendez (C/OF, KC)

Since July 27, Melendez has hit leadoff in 13 of the Royals last 15 contests. He's primarily hitting first against right-handed pitching and he's surging in the second half. Since the All-Star break, he's accrued 86 plate appearances with 12 runs, five doubles, five home runs, 15 RBI and a .293/.361/.560 slash line in 20...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Batters

Today's post explores a TOR and a TEX hitter each moving up in the batting order, thereby enhancing their value. Plus, a rookie catcher has been hitting cleanup for BOS.
Jun 13 2025 3:06am
Brett Baty and Andrew Benintendi may be on the verge of power spikes.
Jun 10 2025 3:07am
Paul Goldschmidt's resurgence has been driven by elite stats and skills against lefty arms.
Jun 9 2025 3:09am
Miguel Vargas' combination of contact and exit velocity made May a big growth month for him.
FREE
Jun 2 2025 3:05am
Jesús Sánchez and Agustín Ramírez have been splitting time at leadoff for Miami. Also, Miguel Vargas has parlayed a hot streak into batting third for the White Sox.
May 30 2025 3:07am

Tools