Should Damon Sit Again Today?
Posted by Steve L. on April 12th, 2008 · Comments (2)
In 68 lifetime PA against Josh Beckett, Bobby Abreu has batted .180 – yes, one-eighty. But, Abreu’s lifetime on-base average against Beckett is .397 – thanks to 18 walks in those 68 PA.
Here’s some other stats for Yankees against Beckett:
Melky Cabrera is a lifetime .318 hitter (7 for 22).
Robinson Cano is a lifetime .389 hitter (7 for 18.)
Jorge Posada is a lifetime .400 hitter (6 for 15).
Hideki Matsui (.214) and Johnny Damon (.238) have not hit Beckett well in the past. But, Godzilla is swinging a hot bat lately.
When I see all these stats, I think General Joe has to give Johnny Damon another day off today, no?
Making lineups decisions based on 15, 22, or even 68 plate appearances is meaningless. Seriously.
Here’s what should be considered:
- each hitter’s talent against all pitchers
- platoon effects (L/R and GB/FB)
- injuries, fielding, other non-hitting related issues
I agree with giving him another day off, or using him as a late inning substitution.