Leadoff hitter

The leadoff hitter is usually tasked with being able to reach base at a proficient on-base percentage and generate runs for the team.

Secondary goals for such a player include wearing down a pitcher's stamina and providing a dangerous presence along the basepaths to create more offensive opportunities.

As a result, the prototypical leadoff hitter is small ball oriented, with elements such as contact ability, speed, patience, and occasionally defense elevated to an important level.

Numerous teams have opted to utilize hitters with strong on-base skills and power potential at the top of the batting order in exchange for speed and pure contact ability.

[6] Non-typical leadoff hitters such as Kyle Schwarber and George Springer have all seen time in the position in recent years.