Brett

Bateman

Bateman has hit leadoff in all but two games dating back to August 14, and he’s now batting .333 through his first 157 major league plate appearances. That average is unlikely to hold up heading into 2027 given it has come with a BABIP north of .400, but the performance and role in the lineup are notable.

Bateman stuffed the stat sheet while continuing to serve as Toronto’s primary leadoff hitter. He has now batted first in all but two games since August 14, one of which came while he was injured. The outfielder leads the Jays in wRC+, though he has just 88 plate appearances on the year. A .433 BABIP has certainly aided his hot start. He’s also yet to homer in the big leagues and has never had more than three in a professional season.