DETROIT – In his debut season with the Yankees, first baseman Paul Goldschmidt has quickly made his mark. Leading the team with a .383 batting average following Wednesday’s 4-3 victory over the Tigers, he’s emerged as one of the squad’s most reliable performers and a prominent leader. After going 2-for-5 with a double in the series finale, Goldschmidt finished 7-for-13 (.538) over the three-game set at Comerica Park.

Goldschmidt joined the Yankees on a one-year, $12.5 million contract signed on Dec. 30, after a 14-year tenure with the D-backs and Cardinals, during which he earned the 2022 National League MVP Award, was named to seven All-Star teams, and won four NL Gold Gloves. Yankees manager Aaron Boone and outfielder Aaron Judge had high praise for him. What has Boone learned about Goldschmidt now that he’s no longer managing against him?

“I guess it’s just probably confirmed some things,” Boone explained. “He’s such a professional. His preparation, attention to detail, and professionalism are exceptional. “And then you look at him. This guy is likely headed to the Hall of Fame, yet he exudes humility. His message to me is, ‘whatever I need from him.’ There’s no, ‘I want to hit here…I want to play here.’ If it’s a day off, he’s prepared. [He’s] going to perform well for us on the field and also enhance our clubhouse.”

Goldschmidt attributes his humility to his parents, David and Kim Goldschmidt. “They taught me nearly everything I know and are truly wonderful people,” he shared. “I strive to remember their advice and make them proud every day.” The right-handed batter has thrived in the leadoff position, hitting .414 in seven starts there, despite never having batted in that spot before in the Majors. What does Boone appreciate about placing the power hitter with decent speed at the top of the order? “Just against lefties, it’s the approach I’ve taken,” Boone remarked.

“And even some right-handers who are somewhat reverse. It adds a bit of balance to our lineup. We’re quite left-handed, so it gives him that extra chance at-bat against a lefty…He’s done a fantastic job there.” “It’s something I hadn’t done before, but I try to take a regular at-bat,” Goldschmidt commented. “I didn’t want to overthink it or change anything. So, each time I step into the box, I try to have a solid at-bat and hit the ball hard, hoping for good results.”

“For him to have batted third or fourth his entire career and come here and say, ‘Sure, I’ll lead off the game,’ [is amazing],” Judge stated. “And he loves it.” Has Judge, who will turn 33 on April 26, found it rewarding to learn from and work alongside Goldschmidt, 37? “Oh, absolutely,” Judge affirmed. “As I told him, ‘If I’m batting in front of you or you’re in front of me, even if I strike out, I might look upset, but ask me.

Ask me what I’m observing, and I’ll share what I see [from the pitcher].’ Communication is crucial, and a little insight like that can make a big difference. “He’s exceptional with his approach. He’s constantly asking questions and always eager to learn. I’m like, ‘Man, you’ve been doing this for so many years and you’re still striving to improve?’ We’re extremely fortunate to have him. Coming here, his goal was to win. That was his main focus, and while there are many good teams, he believes New York offers him the best chance to succeed.”