George Lombard Jr.’s soccer background helped create foundation for rise to Yankees

JASON SZENES FOR THE NEW YORK POSTAsked about George Lombard Jr. on Wednesday, Cody Bellinger offered what is a high compliment in the sport. Lombard was a soccer player, too. Access the Yankees beat like never before Don’t miss Greg Joyce’s text messages from The Bronx and beyond — he’s giving Sports+ subscribers the inside buzz on the Yankees. Sign Up NowThe new Yankees shortstop delayed specializing in one sport, playing both baseball and soccer all through high school. In his senior year — months before he became the Yankees’ first-round pick — the defender (and his brother, Jacob) helped lead Gulliver Prep to a Florida state championship.