Some of those are very strange suggestions. You know what, though? I wouldn't necessarily be opposed to trying some of them if things didn't go well as planned and they had horrible table-setters otherwise. I don't think it is a crime to change the lineup around, and would highly suggest it instead of just hitting your head against a brick wall that isn't working.
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Originally Posted by rockieprogress
While I agree that Helton is still the most feared in pressure situations, he shouldn't be a #3 anymore IMO.
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I mentioned a 2/3 swap could be in order within my suggestion. Really depends a lot on how Helton bounces back from his difficult season last year with the health scare. I might be more optimistic than most, but I really think you'll see Helton more back to himself next season. If not, #2 would be a good spot with his OBP.
But I also am not going to assume that our youngsters are going to get better or even repeat their somewhat surprising results. Sophomore slumps happen. Before I crown Atkins over Helton, he needs to prove it a little more or Helton needs to prove he really can't do it any more. But I think it makes most sense that those guys are #2 and #3, whichever order depending upon how they are going during the season. They both will put the ball in play, get on base, can drive in runs, and can also create good situations for cleanup hitters below them.
I believe Hurdle will probably go with a more traditional move-the-guy-over #2 hitter much of the time (hopefully Taveras stealing a ton of bases will make that less necessary), but I have always liked Atkins there or Helton if he can't deliver the same punch.
I also wouldn't mind moving the heart of the run producers down if Tulo has a great season and proves he can produce at the top of the order (either #2 or #1). That might be where he (or Kaz if he hits as well) end up a lot of the time, but I think the lower part of the middle of the order probably suits him best with his aggressive approach.
They have some additional flexibility, but it really will be important to get more production from the top of the order next year. If Taveras remains here, I'm hoping he busts out in a big way with so much room for balls to find grass in the outfield and our infield grass raised for his many bunts and infield singles. He's blazing fast and can be a weapon for the way they have been trying to play but haven't had the personnel.