Baker will never go with this idea, but I would like to see Bregman and Altuve switched in the lineup. Bregman leading off could tweak his mindset just enough to hit or get on base, but it puts our 2-5 rotation really good at driving in runs. Brantley, Altuve, Yordan, Tucker. This still creates a hole in the bottom of the order with Yuli, McCormick and Maldy but moving Pena up to 6th could add a strong middle of the order that can score in bunches and take advantage of big innings. I for one wouldn't mind having a player like Yuli hitting 7th (struggling or not). Bregman's issue comes with DPs and Brantley gets on base a ton. Get Bregman on base before the mashers or if he grounds out it limits the damage. Maldy isn't get on the often so a DP won't be there as much to kill an inning.
He thought it was foul and just watched it for a half second before taking off. It cost him a base hit.
To us diehards it can definitely feel that way. But I don't have a problem with it because not everybody is as into the game as we are, and we get new fans and viewers every year.
It makes sense and gets Pena out of the mindset of being the last bit of offense before the "can't get on basers" come up. I would love to see what Pena can do hitting in front of Yuli. The 6th spot seems to fit for him. But again, it makes too much sense for Baker.
I have been calling for Bregs at leadoff for several seasons. Its the best choice. Not sure why Baker refuses.
