Analyzing a New Lineup Change for the Dodgers

Secondly, Betts didn’t want to acknowledge the toll that playing shortstop had on his offense during the season, but later admitted it probably did. Betts said he worked on simplifying some things in the offseason, and hopes that will make a difference.

Someone in His Corner

For what it’s worth. Betts’ manager is in his corner, “The way he played shortstop last year, and expecting him to be better offensively this year, he will be in the MVP conversation this year,” said Roberts. For his part, the Dodgers manager hasn’t decided who will bat second or fourth in the order.

Previous Construction

In the last few years, the Los Angeles lineup has featured alternating left-handed and right-handed bats. This obviously puts pressure on the opponent’s starter every game, regardless of the side of the rubber they toe. The batting order is littered with All-Stars, which lengthens it as well. The Dodgers’ advantage seems to increase when the bullpen comes in because of the three-batter rule, limiting the number of pitching changes. Los Angeles is one of the best teams at knowing the strike zone, and they see a lot of pitches per at-bat.

Why the Proposed Change?

Despite the talent-laden lineup, there were times when the offense went uncharacteristically and inexplicably cold. Yes, there were injuries and sickness, but the struggles seemed to make games extremely flat and frustrating. The Dodgers only managed 93 wins in the regular season, and the drought continued into the postseason. Having a .290 hitter like Tucker protect Shohei Ohtani could be the spark that the Los Angeles offense needs, even if it doesn’t fit the previous pattern.

If it doesn’t work out, Dave Roberts can always make adjustments. There is a lot of time before October.