Despite some poor performances to start the year in the minors, the New York Yankees’ top prospect is making positive noise. Young infielder George Lombard Jr. is earning his rank with High-A Hudson Valley.
A few refreshing performances were displayed within the Yankees prospect world. Pitching prospects Ben Hess and Bryce Cunningham both had memorable professional debuts on the mound.
On the other hand, Yankees sixth-ranked prospect Roderick Arias has continued his struggles well into April. The infielder is batting just .170 in 53 at-bats. For his part, Spencer Jones has progressed as the season moves along. He’s batting at an improved .226 average.
The top of the list usually does not lie, and Lombard Jr. is that guy. The 2023 first-rounder sits at the top of the Yankees prospect rankings, and is ranked 98th of MLB’s top 100 prospects this season.
Lombard Jr is ranked 38th on Baseball America’s top 100 prospects list. He rose quickly in April, starting at 88th of 100 earlier in the year. The middle infielder is on a high, showing solid attributes so far with Hudson Valley.
Top Yankees Prospect George Lombard Jr. Stands Out in Several Ways
Lombard’s numerical performance may not be the most extravagant from an analytical aspect, but his overall performance is steady. The infielder has been on a tear since spring training and is continuing thus far.
His statistical line shows the following: 13 games played, 43 at-bats, 13 hits, two extra base hits, one home run, and seven RBI. Lombard Jr. is showing exquisite traits, such as the ability to get on base.
George Lombard Jr. hustles out a double. His seventh hit in the last four games. He’s been on base in every game he’s played this season. pic.twitter.com/ZFqv2Knfnp
— Conor Foley (@ConorFoleyYES) April 16, 2025
He has walked 12 times, struck out 13 times, and recorded a .466 on-base percentage, and he is showing off speed with seven stolen bases so far. His walk percentage is 20.7% with a 22.4% strikeout rate, which is quite acceptable.
Lombard Jr.’s bat has been consistent with strong barrel contact, pushing the ball to most fields. His ability to go the other way is important, along with the importance of getting on the base paths, getting over, and scoring. He’s scored 11 times so far.
Speed and Agility Will Play Out On and Around the Bases
Speed and ability to maneuver the basepaths are consistent attributes for Lomabrd. In 2024, the Yankees prospect finished the year with a slash line of .232/.344/.348. His on-base percentage has remained steady.
In 2024, he also stole a total of 30 bases in 81 games played. This season, these numbers are expected to be matched or elevated, pushing the prospect towards potential advancement. Lombard is one player for the Yankees to consider fast tracking his development and rise through the farm system.
Let’s not forget about the prospect’s ability on the defensive end. Lombard Jr. has the ability to play shortstop, second base, and third base. Middle infield is the main defensive priority for him. He will maintain an average fielding percentage in the .900s at either position, but his bread and butter will be at shortstop. His ability to be agile, cover ground, and utilize an explosive arm will be beneficial in the hole.
