TJ Friedl Thriving as Reds Full-Time Leadoff Hitter

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mason H. Smoller | Last updated Apr 22, 2025 1:30 PM ET

After battling injuries and constant movement in the lineup in years past, 29-year-old centerfielder TJ Friedl is playing the best baseball of his career. To start the 2025 season off at full strength in the full-time leadoff hitter role, Friedl has thrived, taking full advantage of the new opportunity.

Through his first 20 games played, Friedl owns a .296 batting average, significantly higher than his career .258 mark. Compared to his best year in 2023, when he hit .279, if Friedl can maintain this contact hitter mentality, the Cincinnati Reds have themselves a long-term leadoff bat.

After all, Friedl is one of the team's better options when it comes to getting on base. So far this season, Friedl has drawn eight walks for a .363 on-base percentage. Additionally, Friedl has been a weapon with runners in scoring position, with a .350 batting average and seven runs batted in.

At his current rate, Friedl would finish the season with 148 games played and 70 runs batted in. Both would top his current career-highs from the 2023 season, when he had 66 RBI in 138 games played. His 3.6 wins above replacement will be hard to top, but with 0.3 in 20 games, Friedl is well on his way.

Advanced metrics also support Friedl's progression at the plate as well. The lefty is in the 90th percentile in chase rate, whiff percentage, and strikeout rate, while providing elite field run value too. It is worth noting the decrease in balls batted to the opposite field, as he is pulling more than ever before.

As Friedl has been red-hot over the last two weeks, batting .328, chances are he will cool down at some point. Even so, it is hard to understate the value a healthy Friedl makes on this Reds team atop this lineup.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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