ST Report: Week One Spring Training Report

By Mario Scalise

February 24, 2003

Manuel Says Lineup May See Changes

Manager Jerry Manuel said this week that in order to keep a balance of righties and lefties lineup right-handed hitting Carlos Lee and switch-hitter Jose Valentin may be switched pending the matchup from time to time during the season. Lee is projected to bat in the six spot behind Paul Konerko, but with only two lefties in the lineup - both at the top of the order - Lee will see time in the 2-hole with Valentin batting sixth. Another possibility may have the center-fielder, whether it be Aaron Rowand or Willie Harris, batting second, which will leave Lee batting seventh, following Valentin. Lee's second half patience of 2002 is what stirred the idea.

---Because of Valentin's struggles from the right side of the plate, Manuel is really looking for Tim Hummel to step up and serve as the backup to Valentin until Tony Graffanino is able to return.

---Tony Graffanino participated in the teams first full workout. Graffanino's season was cut short last year after suffering an ACL tear. He is not expected back till mid-April.

LEE in 2nd hole??? that will NOT work out

I'm loving the idea of hitting Caballo in the 2 hole. I think it could be one of the best moves Manuel has made in a long time.

 

Carlos is quick, can produce and if his patience at the plate continues to improve will have a very high obp. Plus it means we have a left handed bat back in the lineup. Could you imagine if Carlos continued upon last years 2nd half success. He could have an obp over .400 in the 2 hole with Frank, Maggs, PK and Manos there to knock him in. THen if Jimenez developed into .380 or so this season (Possible, although he may round out more like .360) then we'd have a heck of a top of the lineup.

Jose is going to be the number two guy, Manuel has said that. What Manuel is saying is that Lee can be the number two guy in certain situations.

i think lee would fit in nicely in the 2 hole