Splitting the lefties

by MJW on Oct 9, 2008 4:24 PM EDT

If I remember correctly, the Dodger's situational bullpen lefties (Beimel and Kuo) gave us fits in the series out in LA, and that they were especially effective against Utley and Howard. I would like to see Manuel split those two up by batting Utley second and leaving Howard in clean up. Victorino or Werth could hit third. Utley hasn't been hitting for much power for quite some time and his contribution is actually better suited to the two hole right now. In fact, I'd even consider dropping Utley to sixth, but I know that won't happen. Keeping the two lefties together in the lineup often gives those situational left handed relief pitchers a chance to get two outs without having to face a righty. I'm guessing that Manuel keeps both lefties together though.

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The lefties will not be split tonite

Says Zo

by taco pal on Oct 9, 2008 6:07 PM EDT reply actions

Wish It Were So

If Beimel is anything like Arthur Rhodes vs. Utley and Howard there’s no chance of getting a big hit (or walk) against him.

by phillyinportland on Oct 9, 2008 6:33 PM EDT reply actions

sigh

As much as I’ve come to like Manuel, it’s a never-ending mystery to me that he keeps Howard and Utley together. Howard is nearly helpless against southpaws, and Utley is a little worse than he is against righties. Meanwhile, there are two lefty-mashers available in the lineup every day between Burrell and Werth. Seems like he’s giving Torre, who has three good lefties in the pen with Beimel, Kuo and Kershaw (assuming he doesn’t start Game 4), a significant tactical advantage in the late innings.

by SethC on Oct 10, 2008 4:22 AM EDT reply actions