It’s been a topic of discussion lately
Yesterday, we wrote briefly about the possibility of Kyle Schwarber dropping down in the order, possibly down to the third spot, possibly a bit lower than that. The reasons for the change are known only to the managerial staff, but gleaning from the information they’re putting out, they’re looking for change. Since they couldn’t change the actual roster, they’re tinkering with the roster that is in their hands.
Many iterations can occur. Depending on where you believe players belong as far as skills (on base ability, chase rate, speed, etc.), the team does possess several different options for different spots in the order. Trea Turner looks like the perfect leadoff man with his power and speed, but the stated desire of Bryce Harper is to see a lot of pitches whenever he comes to the plate. Would someone like Bryson Stott maybe be a better option since he saw 4.03 pitches per plate appearance as opposed to Turner’s 3.78?
What about just leaving Schwarber where he is? The lineup seems to have been functioning just fine with him in the spot, so why mess with success? Sure, the home runs that Schwarber hits would look better with someone on base ahead of him, but even a 1-0 lead that leadoff home run looks good. There are a lot of different ways this thing can go, so the question of the day is: what is your optimal lineup for the 2025 Phillies?