George Springer may one day be best remembered for his phenomenal performance in the 2017 World Series, but he’s also making some serious noise in a notable career category.
The Toronto Blue Jays right fielder hit another leadoff home run Friday night, crushing the second pitch of the game from his former teammate, New York Mets ace Justin Verlander, into the bleachers.
The blow marked the 54th career leadoff homer for Springer, tying him with Alfonso Soriano for second on the career list.
Hall of Famer Ricky Henderson sits atop the list with 81 career leadoff homers.
Spring of Queens 👑 #SpringerDinger pic.twitter.com/YfSt8cbXzs
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) June 3, 2023
Springer has a good shot at catching Henderson, who is 27 ahead of him. Springer hit 12 leadoff shots in 2019 alone, and he had nine last year.
Craig Biggio is fourth on the all-time list with 53 leadoff homers, with Ian Kinsler (48) rounding out the top five.
Fans praised Springer’s achievement, and the fact it came against the struggling Verlander did not go unnoticed.
Common Springer Leadoff Dinger
— BO’S BURNER (@boflowsburner) June 3, 2023
Also common first-inning homer against Justin Verlander, a perfect storm
— Anthony Schorling (@aschorling34) June 3, 2023
Healthy George Springer is a very dangerous guy
— CJay (@Prominent_Jaay) June 3, 2023
Your typical Springer Dinger
— Sid (@BoFlowShow) June 3, 2023
Hope the Mets kept their receipt from that Justin Verlander purchase
— BestOdds.com (@BestOddsBets) June 3, 2023
