Has Joe Girardi Learned A Lesson?

The Yankees lineup for tonight's game has been released and it features a swap that I suggested here earlier today. Jorge Posada and Hideki Matsui swapped spots with Posada now batting 5th and Matsui batting 6th. I wrote earlier that a huge problem in the Yankees lineup was exposed last night when Girardi inserted Brett Gardner into the lineup to pinch run for Matsui. As soon as Matsui leaves the lineup, A-Rod has no protection. The Yankee bench is made up of some pretty light-hitting guys and the Angels were wise to intentionally walk A-Rod with 2 outs and the bases open in order to pitch to Jerry Hairston. If the games are close and it's late in the game, you could expect the same to happen. Posada now offers A-Rod the protection he needs in the event that the DH gets lifted for whatever the reason. It's a smart move.

Girardi though isn't pointing to the flaw in the lineup as the reason for the change. Girardi says the move is based on Posada's past success versus Scott Kazmir. While that may be somewhat true, I have to think the gaping hole left in the lineup when Matsui is taken out has a lot to do with it. I guess we'll know for sure on Thursday when the lineup is released.

Girardi made a somewhat smart move. Who's surprised?

Peace, love and Pinstripes,

J-Boogie