Why Is Oliver Perez Batting Second

Jerry Manuel just revealed his lineup for todays game against the Marlins later this afternoon.

Luis Castillo 2B
OLIVER PEREZ P
Jose Reyes SS
Carlos Delgado 1B
David Wright 3B
Carlos Beltran CF
Ryan Church RF
Daniel Murphy LF
Brian Schneider C

Steve Popper added that most of the media was befuddled by the move…

Most of the media is arguing the point here, awaiting Jerry’s explanation. Ben Shpigel of the NY Times offers that he wants to see him bunt. When I countered that there is a pretty good chance Castillo won’t be on base, Joel Sherman of the Post surmises he wants to see him bunt live. All good points but still a little odd, right?

I’m thinking that it just guarantees Oliver an at-bat because he is slated to throw only two innings. It’s also a perfect way for Jerry to emphasize to his pitchers that he expects them to become better situational hitters.

Considering that it’s the spring and the games don’t really count, what’s wrong with getting our starting pitchers to improve their approach at the plate?

I’m more intrested in seeing how Reyes performs in the three spot…

Go Gangsta… I love the way you roll…

Comments are appreciated.