Francona adjusts Red Sox lineup

[RedSeat]

It's just the first spring training game, but Terry Francona has already made a key adjustment, flipping Manny and Nomar in the order. They hit 3rd and 4th respectively. I thought about this last year, and it seemed to make so much sense, I figured I must be missing something. I'm glad someone else sees it my way.

Manny sees a lot of pitches and was intentionally walked 28 times last year. Nomar is the classic bad-ball hitter and is always among the hardest guys in the league to strike out. Manny is more likely to benefit from the protection, plus the move should force a few extra pitches in the first inning.

One game into the new era. So far, so good.

[hmrsf]

I want to see people on base in front of Manny. That is all I want. Do that and I will be a very happy hmrsf!

[Crash Course]

Plus, with a runner on, in this case it being Manny, Nomar is more likely to bust his tail down the line to beat out the DP attempt - - whereas, with a runner on, being Nomar, and Manny hitting the grounder, it's a lock for a DP - - - correct?

[TimmyB]

Originally Posted by Crash Course

Plus, with a runner on, in this case it being Manny, Nomar is more likely to bust his tail down the line to beat out the DP attempt - - whereas, with a runner on, being Nomar, and Manny hitting the grounder, it's a lock for a DP - - - correct?

Absolutely. This is a good move.