Paul Goldschmidt has delivered a strong start for the New York Yankees in 2025, providing the club a significant production increase at first base. Goldschmidt signed a one-year deal with New York during the offseason after parting ways with the St. Louis Cardinals.
Through late April, Paul Goldschmidt held a batting average around .365 and an on-base percentage near .417. This output marks a substantial improvement over the Yankees' first base performance from the previous season, which ranked among the worst in MLB. His early performance has earned him recognition on lists highlighting baseball’s most improved positions.
The 37-year-old first baseman has adjusted his approach at the plate. While known previously for his power, Goldschmidt is focusing on hitting line drives and utilizing all fields, including the opposite field more often than in the past. His strikeout and whiff rates are notably lower this season.
This shift has led to a high batting average on balls in play, currently among the highest in the major leagues. Despite hitting only one home run since Opening Day, his ability to consistently put the ball in play and avoid strikeouts has made him one of the Yankees' most productive hitters.
Goldschmidt’s plate discipline remains high, but he is swinging at more first pitches this year compared to his career average. This change aligns with seeing what he describes as more hittable pitches early in counts. His rate of seeing pitches over the middle of the plate is the highest of his career.
Hitting coach James Rowson noted that Goldschmidt is a hitter who evolves and takes what the game provides. He described Goldschmidt as a "professional hitter" focused on the quality of his at-bats.
Goldschmidt typically bats near Aaron Judge in the Yankees lineup, often hitting cleanup or directly behind Judge. He has played a key role in the team's offense while other players have dealt with injuries or early-season struggles.
The decision by the St. Louis Cardinals to not re-sign Goldschmidt was part of a move towards a new era for their team. For both the player and his new club, the early results indicate a mutually beneficial outcome.
His current statistics, including a wRC+ significantly higher than his former club's output at the position last year, highlight the upgrade he represents for the New York Yankees.
Rowson commented on Goldschmidt's mindset, suggesting he is focused on good contact rather than solely power numbers. "He’ll hit some homers. But I think he’s in a great spot of not trying to do too much," Rowson said.
