Cincinnati Reds' Billy Hamilton showing offensive improvement, working toward leadoff spot

CLEVELAND – Since the end of April, Billy Hamilton has told his Cincinnati Reds teammates and reporters that his goal is returning to the leadoff spot.

He’s certainly seen improvement at the plate in the last three weeks. Since June 19, Hamilton is batting .350 in 19 games with a .412 on-base percentage.

Hamilton made his biggest impact last weekend in a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs, reaching base nine times in 12 plate appearances with four runs scored and five stolen bases.

Through those three games, Hamilton raised his on-base percentage from .295 to .313.

“I told those guys, ‘That’s my main goal: to get back to the No. 1 spot,’ ” Hamilton said. “Whatever I’ve got to do to get…