Is this the right call by Nevin, or is there a reason behind it? Because the stats clearly show Ohtani performs better batting 1st and 2nd. I think Trout does better at 3rd as well.
Is this a “respect” thing? Like the better player should go first, or would it be embarrassing if they still pitched around Ohtani even with Trout coming up?
Genuinely curious since the numbers are clearly there. Maybe it has something to do with the starting pitcher? Or they think lefty then righty works better?
2 comments
I think there is some correlation/causation here. Ohtani is probably put at leadoff when he’s the best fit for that pitcher/ballpark/etc, so naturally he has better numbers
Perry Manaysian is making these calls, not Puppet manager Nevin