Paul Goldschmidt could enter a remarkable group before the New York Yankees even take their first swing against the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday night.
If New York bats him leadoff in Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series, the 39-year-old will join a short list of players who have occupied the top lineup spot in a postseason game at his age or older.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi identified the previous members of that group: Justin Turner with the 2025 Cubs, Craig Biggio with the 2005 Astros, Rickey Henderson with the 2000 Mariners and 1999 Mets, Ozzie Smith with the 1996 Cardinals, Joe Morgan with the 1983 Phillies, and Pete Rose with the 1980 Phillies.
It is an unusual piece of history for a player better known for driving in runs than setting the table.
Article Continues BelowThe matchup gives Yankees manager Aaron Boone a reason to consider it. Boston is starting left-hander Payton Tolle, and Goldschmidt hit .299 with a .967 OPS against left-handed pitching during the regular season. He also has experience atop New York’s order: in 147 at-bats from the leadoff spot, he collected 41 hits, nine home runs, and 23 RBIs while drawing 17 walks.
Those numbers suggest the decision would be about more than a historical footnote. Goldschmidt produced a .355 on-base percentage and .872 OPS when batting first this season. Against Tolle, Boone could use the veteran’s right-handed bat to put an immediate runner on base or give New York an early lead with one swing.
The Yankees had not posted their Game 1 lineup as of Tuesday afternoon, so Goldschmidt’s place in that group of legends remains conditional. Whenever the lineup arrives, New York’s priority will be finding enough offense to beat its longtime rival. If Goldschmidt leads off, he will have a chance to make history and help the Yankees start the series on the right foot.
However, they must do so without their star Aaron Judge, who is not on the Wild Card roster.