Bryson Stott Emerges as Phillies’ Leadoff Hitter Amid Lineup Shifts

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Bryson Stott became the Philadelphia Phillies‘ leadoff hitter unexpectedly early in the 2025 season. After checking the lineup on May 6, Stott realized he would be batting first for the first time in the season’s 13th game.

“And I was like, ‘I’m not playing?’” Stott recalled. “Then I looked at the top and I go, ‘Oh crap, I’m hitting first.’” In the 17 starts that followed, Stott batted .270 with a .321 on-base percentage and .392 slugging percentage from the leadoff spot. While the role seems secure for now, performance will ultimately dictate his future.

Rob Thomson, the Phillies’ manager, explored various batting orders throughout spring training, with Kyle Schwarber and Trea Turner frequently rotating in the leadoff position. Stott expressed his contentment with the role, saying, “Topper and I are to the point where he knows it doesn’t bother me where I’m hitting in the lineup.”

Stott’s batting style offers the Phillies versatility. The team has needed a pacesetter for hitters like Turner, Bryce Harper, and Schwarber, while also emphasizing the importance of seeing pitches. He has seen an average of 4.52 pitches per plate appearance, the highest of his career.

“Well, he’s been getting on base,” Thomson said. “If you’re doing that, you’re pretty darn good.” The Phillies’ upcoming schedule will feature right-handed pitchers, which further solidifies Stott’s position as the leadoff hitter.

While the Phillies avoid treating Stott as a platoon player, he has not started games against left-handed pitchers since early April. Still, the organization trusts his placement in the lineup against righties.

Stott has been meticulous about his approach, notably taking the first pitch almost 93 percent of the time. “I care about our pitchers a lot,” he said, underscoring his strategy to maximize their effectiveness by seeing pitches.

Thomson noted that Stott is comfortable hitting with two strikes, a quality that has proven beneficial as he adapts to his role at the top of the lineup. “He’s comfortable hitting with two strikes,” Thomson said, emphasizing Stott’s unique skill set.

“I think I can do it too,” Stott said when reflecting on his journey to the leadoff role. His performance continues to impact the lineup positively as the Phillies progress through the 2025 season.