
I was surprised to see Charlie Manuels' lineup that featured those three straight lefties. Switch hitting Shane Victorino could easily bat 2nd, while Jayson Werth could bat 5th, behind Howard, to break up the lefties, with Ibanez taking the 6th slot. The lineup in the 9th inning would then go Switch, Switch, Lefty, Lefty, Righty, Lefty following Eric Bruntlett's leadoff double. This gives minimal advantage to the bullpen matchups for the Braves. Leaving three straight lefty hitters to face the Braves' lefty closer in the 9th inning is not the best managing on Charlie's part, even if those hitters are the team's "big three".
The Phillies have now lost four straight season openers. I have now been sick for five straight days. Rest is needed. Good night.
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IronPigPen featured a nice PhoulBallz.com reference over the weekend. Check that out right here.
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