GIDP and the #2 hitter

[thomsonmi]

Our GIDP problem isn't just about slow-footed power hitters, of which we do have many. Another aspect for us is too often our slow-footed power hitters are hitting in double play situations. One of the obvious ways to avoid such situations is by having a better base stealer at the top of the order. But, another way to avoid such situations is to have a #2 hitter who focuses on advancing the runner. For this reason, I'm not sure having Lee bat second is the best answer.

 

Carlos is too good a hitter for us to have him focusing on advancing the runner. El Cabuyo should be hitting 3, 4, or 5 in the lineup. In those spots he can focus on driving in runs.

 

I wouldn't mind us working on Rowand as a potential #2 hitter. I think Aaron can be a good major league hitter but I don't see him as ever being an RBI guy like Lee, Thomas, or Maggs. Rowand seems to have the skills that a traditional #2 hitter should have.

[DonkeyKongerko]

I think the #2 hitter is overlooked as a very difficult spot in the batting order. #2 hitters often have the bat taken out of their hands to either give the leadoff man on first a chance to steal, or to bunt or otherwise advance the runner. I think moving Aaron Rowand down in the order helped him in his monstrous .377 second half because it also took alot of pressure off of him.

 

With that said, I nevertheless agree that Carlos is the wrong man to stick in the 2-hole for the long haul. He plays a power-position in the corner outfield and is capable of knocking in a ton of runs. I think we should start the year with Carlos at #2 because he is comfortable there but transition him to #5 or #6 as soon as Aaron is ready.

[Al Lopez Ghost (old)]

I'd go with Rowand. He's hit there a lot, I think, and been fairly successful at it. As I remember it, he had a good concept of what it takes - he hits behind the runner and he can bunt. So far, I think Rowand has shown himself to be a team player, which at the 2 hole is very important. Keep Clee 5th, where he can drive in a boatload of runs.

[YASNY]

I'd go with Rowand. He's hit there a lot, I think, and been fairly successful at it. As I remember it, he had a good concept of what it takes - he hits behind the runner and he can bunt. So far, I think Rowand has shown himself to be a team player, which at the 2 hole is very important. Keep Clee 5th, where he can drive in a boatload of runs.

I agree. Rowand seems to be a real "team" player. He's talented enough to do it, and really should be given the opportunity to hold down that spot in the order.