3 Yankees Hitters to Watch on Opening Day Against the Astros

It’s that time of year once again: Opening Day is finally back! T

he New York Yankees will open up their 2024 season on the road this afternoon against the Houston Astros. The expectation for these Yankees are high following a disappointing 2023 season. And the heightened expectations certainly start in the batter’s box.

These are the three hitters in pinstripes that Yanks fans should be watching most closely on Opening Day.

1. Juan Soto

Mar 3, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Juan Soto (22) runs the bases after | Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

The top player to keep an eye on is easily Juan Soto, who fans have been anxiously waiting to see in real game action since he came over in that blockbuster trade in December.

The games may not have counted, but Soto made a strong impression during Spring Training, showcasing his skills with a .294 batting average, four home runs, 10 RBIs, and an impressive 1.039 OPS in 12 games.

Additionally, Soto is no stranger to Minute Maid Park, making him an intriguing player to watch against the Astros. He’s had some success against them in past in the 2019 World Series when he was in Nationals uniform. It will be interesting to see if he can continue to carry that success now that he’s playing for a different squad.

2. Aaron Judge

Feb 25, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) points to the | Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

As we all know it, Aaron Judge is going to be a crucial piece to this Yankees lineup this season after injuries limited him to just 106 games in 2023.

Look for him start off the season with a bang considering some of the success he’s had in the past against the Astros as a visiting player. Additionally, after a productive offseason, Judge has been focused on refining his approach at the plate and strengthening his game, which could translate into even greater success this season.

Keep a close watch on Judge as he looks to make a significant impact from the outset and lead the Yankees to victory.

Giancarlo Stanton

Mar 13, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) doubles | Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

So far this spring, Giancarlo Stanton has found some success and that is thanks to the major physical and mechanical transformation he underwent this offseason.

In 14 spring training games, Stanton hit .333 with four home runs, 11 RBIs and a 1.029 OPS. He will look to continue to stay red-hot this afternoon when the Bronx Bombers kick off their season in Houston.

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This article was originally published on empirewritesback.com as 3 Yankees Hitters to Watch on Opening Day Against the Astros.