MLB Hitters Swing First Pitches at Highest Rate Since 1988

The trend in Major League Baseball shows an increase in first-pitch swinging, with the MLB-wide swing percentage at 32.1% in 2025, matching the highest levels seen since 1988. Players like Nick Castellanos (56%), Bryce Harper (53.9%), Pete Crow-Armstrong (52.7%), and Ceddanne Rafaela (50.8%) lead the majors in this aggressive approach, which reflects a strategic emphasis on being ready to hit good pitches early in the count. This approach contrasts with the New York Yankees' offensive struggles as they head into the postseason, where a high strikeout rate, especially from star Aaron Judge who holds the highest playoff strikeout percentage in MLB history at 34.3%, poses a significant challenge. The Yankees face the Toronto Blue Jays, who lead the AL East with a contact-oriented and patient offensive style, boasting the highest on-base percentage and lowest strikeout rate in the league. Fantasy baseball players are advised to adjust their lineups strategically as playoffs near, with tiers guiding decisions based on players' current form and matchups. Additionally, betting insights highlight valuable strikeout prop opportunities in late-season games, emphasizing pitchers with favorable matchups and consistent strikeout performances.