The lineup is fine. If Brantley gets an additional at bat at the end of the game, it won't be against Rodon. Bregman and Alvarez hit better against lefties, so if they bring in a lefty in relief to face Brantley, that's not exactly bad news with the three batter rule. If they don't bring in a lefty than Brantley is slightly better against righties than Tucker.
I'd prefer him hit that grand slam on his second time through the order in the first inning. 2nd Homer with a 8 run lead already. 1 OB 2 Tucker 2-run Homer 3.4.5.6.7.8.9.1. - 6 or more score and no more than 2 out 2, Tucker GRAND SLAM I like records. Let's go for 12 in the first inning.
Lfg and close these unbuttoned jersey, chain wearing, cry babies out today. Lance has ice in his veins and is going to shove an icicle up their ass
Who's behind the plate today? Will Hallion go into his strikeout routine before the ceremonial first pitch?
I will say it probably doesn't matter, but if I was CWS's manager, I would see Brantley batting 2nd as a possible way to get Rodon a couple of extra batters in the second or third time through the order before pulling him. Caveat: Assuming Rodon lasts that long.
If he's struggling, I don't think this will be the deciding factor. If he's not, then it's one additional batter with Bregman and Alvarez behind him. It may not be the 100% most optimal lineup, but we're at the point that where the guys are comfortable hitting is more important than the minor optimization.
Hoping for a decent ump this time around... If the game is called fair Astros should close out today. Astros always tend to make things interesting thou.
Sigh, that is was not my point. I agree that McCullers is you best bet for game 4. My point was expecting him to go out there and be as dominant like he was in game 1 for even 5 innings is hubris. I would love to be proven wrong, but I'm not sure he is that level of elite Ace pitcher to do that. My plan B/C/D comment was for Game 4 if he gets into trouble, how much trouble is too much, and who do you use in relief in what order.
Sorry. The entire bullpen minus maybe Javier is available. Plan A is McCullers for 6+ and Stanek/Gravemen/Pressly. Plans B/C/D are situational. You have Urquidy if you need multiple innings. No one is hoping to see Maton, Garcia, or Raley, but Maton or Grienke are the most likely in a high leverage situation where you aren’t using the 7th-9th inning guys given recent performance.
