The idea of what a superb lead-off hitter exemplifies has changed a good deal over the years. It used to be that the typical lead-off hitters would have little power but were adept at getting on base so that the middle of the order hitters would have the opportunity to drive them in.
Recently, the standard for lead-off hitters has changed. In 2019, seven of the top 10 lead-off hitters by plate appearances hit 20 or more home runs and four of those seven hit 30 or more home runs with George Springer leading the group with an impressive 39 bombs.