George Lombard Jr., the Yankees' top prospect, has started strong for the High-A Hudson Valley Renegades this season. The 19-year-old shortstop, a first-round pick in the 2023 draft, has shown improvement in performance metrics and physical development.
Lombard Jr. is batting over .300 with an OPS near .950 through his first weeks in High-A. His ability to get on base and steal bases has also contributed to his strong start. Jarret DeHart, Yankees director of hitting, noted that Lombard Jr. is "just scratching the surface of how good he can be."
Multiple rival evaluators have observed Lombard Jr.'s progress. One executive noted he "looks bigger, faster (and) stronger, and he’s playing with more of an edge — in a good way." Another evaluator commented on his confidence and presence at the plate. Comments from these rival evaluators highlight the attention he is drawing.
Hudson Valley manager James Cooper has seen George Lombard Jr.'s development firsthand, having managed him in the Florida Complex League and Class-A Tampa. Cooper stated that Lombard Jr. is "way more physical now than he was two years ago," attributing it to his work in the weight room.
Lombard Jr.'s background includes growing up around baseball, with his father, George Lombard Sr., having played in MLB and currently serving as the Detroit Tigers bench coach. This experience has helped Lombard Jr. understand the daily preparation required in professional baseball.
While shortstop is his primary position, Lombard Jr. has demonstrated versatility by playing second and third base this season. Cooper indicated the plan is to continue giving him reps at multiple infield spots, believing lessons learned at second and third can benefit his play at shortstop.
Baseball operations officials and outside evaluators suggest that despite his strong start, a promotion to the major leagues this season is unlikely due to his age and relatively limited professional experience. His path forward will involve accumulating more at-bats and refining his game through the minor league system. Lombard Jr. himself stated he is "staying where my feet are and staying present."
High-A hitting coach Tom DeAngelis noted Lombard Jr.'s improved strength and decision-making at the plate, resulting in exit velocities exceeding 110 mph. While power is seen as a tool, monitoring his bat-to-ball skills at higher levels is a focus.
Lombard Jr. earned respect quickly among teammates and staff. Hudson Valley manager James Cooper said, "When you’re drafted as early as he’s drafted, some guys already give you that kind of respect. But he’s a guy who’s gone out and earned it.”
