In a recent fan survey, Yankees supporters were asked who they consider the team’s best hitter not named Aaron Judge. While there was no overwhelming consensus, one seasoned slugger stood out as the favorite.
The results of the latest SB Nation Reacts poll revealed that fans see Paul Goldschmidt as the most reliable offensive contributor behind Judge. The 2022 NL MVP and seven-time All-Star earned 46% of the vote, thanks to a strong start to his 2025 campaign. At 37 years old, he’s hitting .352 with a 149 wRC+ and has shown an ability to consistently get on base ahead of Judge in the lineup.
However, rookie Ben Rice wasn’t far behind in the fan vote, collecting 38%. Rice has caught attention with his power surge early in the season, slashing .317/.414/.650 through his first 70 plate appearances—numbers comparable to Judge’s legendary 2022 run. While fans acknowledge Rice’s hot streak may cool, many believe his bat will remain a vital part of the offense throughout the year.
Other players considered included Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., each bringing different skill sets to the lineup but trailing behind the top two in fan confidence.
Beyond the Yankees, the national version of the survey asked fans which offseason acquisition had the biggest impact. Kyle Tucker, now with the Cubs, earned the top spot. Yankees fans might feel a sting, as the team reportedly passed on acquiring Tucker due to their reluctance to part with Luis Gil, who is currently injured. Tucker, meanwhile, is tearing it up with a .301 average and 173 wRC+.
Meanwhile, Yankees additions Goldschmidt and Max Fried have both performed admirably—especially Fried, who has stepped into the ace role with Gerrit Cole sidelined. But it’s clear fans are still keeping a close eye on what could have been with Tucker lighting it up in Chicago.
