The New York Yankees closed out a successful series against the Toronto Blue Jays with an 8-3 victory on Sunday afternoon, claiming two of the three games.
The win improved New York’s record to 74-56 and kept the club firmly in second place in the American League, trailing only the Tampa Bay Rays. For rookie shortstop George Lombard Jr., the afternoon marked his 17th major league game since his call-up on Aug. 4.
He collected two hits and scored twice in four at-bats, continuing to show why the organization has high hopes for the young player.
After the game, manager Aaron Boone was asked specifically about Lombard Jr.’s progress at the plate. Boone did not hold back his praise.
“Yeah, it’s been excellent. He’s another guy that’s gotten a lot better on that side of the ball this year,” Boone said. “He’s grown a lot as a hitter. He knows the strike zone. That’s always something he’s done a good job with and should continue that.”
Boone went on to highlight the combination of skills Lombard Jr. is beginning to display.
“He’s strong and has some power. But I think the hit-ability piece is getting better … he’s done a really good job. Competitive at-bats day in and day out. Whether you get a knock or two or you don’t, he’s represented himself really well.”
Those comments align with the numbers Lombard Jr. has posted so far. In 59 at-bats he is hitting .288 with two home runs, five RBIs, and one stolen base. His .407 slugging percentage and .755 OPS suggest a hitter who is finding his way against big-league pitching while still making consistent contact.
Defensively, he has looked even more advanced, handling the demands of shortstop with a maturity that belies his limited experience.
The Yankees now turn their attention to a home series against the Houston Astros beginning Tuesday, followed by a weekend set with the Boston Red Sox, who sit just three games back in the standings.
As the season enters its final stretch, Lombard Jr.’s continued development offers New York another promising piece in a roster already positioned for a strong run.
Boone’s measured but clearly positive assessment indicates the coaching staff believes the young shortstop is heading in the right direction, both with the glove and at the plate.
