By Jon Weisman
We’re just a day away from actual, “this time it doesn’t count” baseball. Here’s the starting lineup the Dodgers will put out against the White Sox at Camelback Ranch at 12:05 p.m. Pacific on Wednesday:
Jimmy Rollins, SS
Carl Crawford, LF
Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Howie Kendrick, 2B
Yasmani Grandal, C
Andre Ethier, CF
Juan Uribe, 3B
Joc Pederson, DH
Chris Heisey, RF
(Erik Bedard, P)
Don Mattingly has said that he doesn’t intend to start any regulars three days in a row, and there is a pair of split-squad games Friday. So expect a number of these guys to rest in Thursday’s rematch with the White Sox. (The Dodgers will be the home team Wednesday and the road team Thursday.)
Mattingly indicated to reporters today that Rollins would be the Dodgers’ principal leadoff hitter, in part because of his switch-hitting and speed, in part because they don’t have a perfect fit for the top of the order. Mattingly reiterated that he welcomed the thoughts of Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi on lineup construction.
oldbrooklynfan
I’m really excited that the Dodgers have a switch hitting lead off hitter, along with a catcher who will start numerous games. I’ve been feeling that the Dodgers didn’t have enough switch hitters which I think is good for a team. I’m still puzzled over why the Dodgers signed Heisey when they seemed to have enough outfielders.
artieboy
Isn’t one assumption that Ethier will eventually be traded. Also I don’t think SVS is seen as defensive substitution. Who is left to stick in the outfield to protect a one run lead after a double switch?