LINEUP OUTLOOK: MJ Melendez and Tommy Pham are batting first, could Joey Meneses provide power?

With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, many teams will adjust lineups for the stretch run, or provide players with auditions for 2023. Two different batters will be featured in this week's lineup outlook who have eyes on batting leadoff for their respective teams. Plus, those seeking a power boost may benefit from a late-age breakout in Washington, though it's a limited sample size. 

MJ Melendez (C/OF, KC)

Since July 27, Melendez has hit leadoff in 13 of the Royals last 15 contests. He's primarily hitting first against right-handed pitching and he's surging in the second half. Since the All-Star break, he's accrued 86 plate appearances with 12 runs, five doubles, five home runs, 15 RBI and a .293/.361/.560 slash line in 20...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Batters

Alec Burleson's elite stats and skills against RHers and struggles vs. LHers suggest he hasn't maxed out his results yet.
Aug 24 2026 3:15am
Henry Bolte and Chandler Simpson are leading off for their respective teams, and were we too high on Max Clark?
Aug 21 2026 3:06am
Esmerlyn Valdez's elite batted ball quality at home confirms his significant untapped upside.
Aug 17 2026 3:15am
Royce Lewis looks like an elite bat in stretches, including during the heater he's been on since returning from the minors.
Aug 10 2026 3:07am
Lawrence Butler may be reclaiming the leadoff spot for the A's, and other hitters are benefiting from moving up in the batting order.
Aug 7 2026 3:06am

Tools