The Cincinnati Reds have been longing for a solid leadoff hitter to fill out their lineup. For the majority of the 2023 season, Jonathan India seemed like their guy. India led off for the Reds in 49 games to start the new season. Over the last two weeks, however, India has been moved into the three-hole for the Reds. India has provided a good bat in that lineup spot, but you can tell his bat is different. Now with the emergence of Elly De La Cruz, is it time for Jonathan India to return to the leadoff spot?
Does Jonathan India’s Spark Plug Approach Translate Better In The Leadoff Spot?
When you compare Jonathan India’s numbers as a leadoff hitter to when he bats third, it doesn’t seem like much of a difference. The feel and approach though seem a bit different. When India was drafted out of the University of Florida, his power came on in his final season. During his time in the Reds minor league system though, the team felt more confident in his approach and ability to get on base.
When India debuted in 2021, he hit 21 home runs. So far this season he’s tallied six. The power is there, but his contact and on-base skill is much more appreciated. Let’s compare Jonathan India’s numbers based on the batting order.
Batting Leadoff- Batting Third-
AVG- .283 AVG- .268
OBP- .376 OBP- .300
OPS- .789 OPS- .729
HR- 3 HR- 3
RBI- 19 RBI- 12
BB- 25 BB- 1
SB- 8 SB- 4
More Guys On Base For Elly Can Never Hurt
As already mentioned, Elly De La Cruz is finally here. His presence alone will wreak havoc on opposing pitchers. For how long? That is yet to be determined. With him on the team, you can slot him in as your switch-hitting three-hole hitter and not look back. Moving Jonathan India back to his leadoff position could be a recipe for more runs.
It feels like it could be a matter of days before we see the Reds run out and infield of Elly De La Cruz, Jonathan India, and Matt McLain with Spencer Steer and Christian Encarnacion-Strand handling 1B/DH. This lineup is gonna be very fun very soonpic.twitter.com/9DcTFh2l4f
— Tyler Bowen (@bowentyler96) May 29, 2023
A perfect top-of-the-order for most days would consist of India, Matt McLain, Cruz, and Spencer Steer. If India feels comfortable, and looks the part of a leadoff hitter, it’s time for the Reds to maximize their production out of the former Rookie of the Year winner.
Photo Credit: Sam Greene-USA TODAY Sports
Players Mentioned: Jonathan India, Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer
