George Lombard Jr. Shines in Futures Game
ATLANTA – Underneath a pop-up, George Lombard Jr. spotted the batter. After taking part in an inning during the Double-A Somerset game, the shortstop quickly reacted when the ball hit the grass. He scooped it up, threw to first base, then, with impressive reflexes, targeted second for an unconventional but challenging double play.
“That’s one of those plays you visualize repeatedly in your mind, and you really hope you’ll get the chance to execute it,” Lombard noted on Saturday, reflecting on the play he made in late May. “When I’m out there, I’m always analyzing and predicting what could happen.”
The reasons the Yankees are drawn to Lombard are numerous, but as the coach’s son, his baseball IQ could be what rounds out his skill set.
At the Futures game held at Trust Park, Lombard showcased his talents impressively. He drew a walk, stole a base, made it to first plate, hit a double in his second at-bat, and even made a diving catch to rob a single from fielder Slade Cordwell.
While he represented the Yankees, he wasn’t alone on the field. Prior to the 4-2 victory for the National League, he watched his brother Jacob compete in the All-Star High School home run derby. The Lombard family, with their father George being a former major leaguer and current bench coach for the Tigers, is certainly well-versed in baseball talk during dinner.
Lombard Jr. can occasionally misjudge a pop-up when the potential for a double play is in sight. Last week, he garnered significant online attention for an impressive groundball play. He maneuvered into the field, sprinting just a few feet from the baseline.
“It’s a play my dad frequently discusses,” the 20-year-old responded attentively, wearing a smile. “I learned a lot from him…It was thrilling to be able to pull it off in a game.”
It’s easy to picture Lombard—the natural shortstop, known for his versatility and athleticism (with 25 stolen bases this season)—finding a spot in the Yankees’ infield in the coming years. His potential seems undeniable. However, he’s also focused on making tangible improvements.
The 2023 first-round pick began his stint in Somerset slowly after excelling at High A Hudson Valley, where he achieved an OPS of .983 over 24 games.
He mentioned making adjustments at the plate and starting to feel comfortable against more seasoned pitchers.
“In Double-A, I faced older pitchers this season, around 354 plate appearances,” Lombard explained. “But ultimately, it’s still baseball, still just a game.”
As the Yankees continue adapting their roster, Lombard stands out as a key prospect, especially alongside players like Spencer Jones.
A player with his skillset and reputation could very well be a valuable asset for GM Brian Cashman, particularly as they approach the trade deadline.
While Lombard gets advice and insights from his father, he’s careful not to become too fixated on the future.
“I’m trying to stay focused on my game and not get swept up in rumors,” Lombard stated. “I aim to control what I can, remain present, be a good teammate, and take care of my responsibilities every day.”
