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Strategic Lineup Adjustments for Toronto Blue Jays
Manager John Schneider of the Toronto Blue Jays has made strategic adjustments to the team’s lineup for the upcoming 2024 season, opting to swap the batting positions of franchise cornerstones George Springer, Bo Bichette, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. In the new lineup configuration, Guerrero Jr. will be moved up to the two-hole, while Bichette will be hitting third.
Guerrero Jr.’s Positional Shift
Throughout his career, Guerrero Jr. has predominantly occupied the third spot in the batting order, including 110 games in the previous season. However, he has also seen action as the second hitter in 138 games. Statistical analysis reveals that his performance has been notably better when hitting third, evidenced by a .781 OPS compared to a .781 mark when batting second.
Schneider explained the decision to relocate Guerrero Jr., emphasizing the positive momentum in the hitter’s current form. Placing Guerrero Jr. between Springer and Bichette is viewed as a strategic move to optimize the team’s offensive output, reinforcing the team’s formidable top three batting sequence.
Bichette’s Adjusted Role
Bichette, a versatile player who has appeared in various batting positions, including first, second, third, and fourth, has demonstrated peak performance when positioned at the third spot in the lineup. With a commanding 1.011 OPS in 35 games in that position, Bichette’s presence is expected to provide instrumental protection for Guerrero Jr. in the revised batting order.
Further Lineup Adjustments
Besides the repositioning of the top three hitters, the Blue Jays have strategically placed free-agent acquisition Justin Turner in the cleanup spot. Turner’s impressive performance in the previous season, boasting a career-high 96 runs driven in and a slash line of .338/.395/.547 with runners in scoring position, solidifies the team’s lineup.
Returning players Daulton Varsho and Alejandro Kirk will occupy the fifth and sixth slots, respectively, following strong showings in spring training. Kevin Kiermaier, a recent addition to the team, has been elevated to the seventh spot after previously batting ninth for the Blue Jays during the 2023 season.
Completing the lineup behind starting pitcher Jose Berrios are Isiah Kiner-Falefa, projected to be the everyday third baseman, and Cavan Biggio, expected to feature prominently at second base against right-handed pitchers.
Upcoming Season Opener
Baseball enthusiasts can anticipate the Toronto Blue Jays’ inaugural game of the 2024 season against the Tampa Bay Rays, scheduled to commence at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT. The game will be broadcasted live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, offering fans the opportunity to witness the team’s revamped lineup in action.
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