We are just a few hours from the first pitch of 2016 Spring Training Grapefruit League play, and the opening lineup is out. Manager Pete Mackanin has posted what mostly looks to be a lineup of regular players. This could show some insight into what Mackanin is thinking when we get to the regular season.
Here is your Grapefruit League opening lineup:
- Peter Bourjos, RF
- Odubel Herrera, CF
- Maikel Franco, 3B
- Ryan Howard, 1B
- Aaron Altherr, LF
- J.P. Arancebia, DH
- Cesar Hernandez, 2B
- Carlos Ruiz, C
- Freddy Galvis, SS
There are a few surprises in the lineup.
For starters, the Phillies have Peter Bourjos batting first. When the Phillies had Ben Revere he usually got the call, and upon his departure Cesar Hernandez had a shot. Bourjos has posted an on base percentage of .300 just twice in his six seasons at the Major League level. Further, in the last four seasons, Bourjos has not stolen more than nine bases. Neither show the resume of a leadoff hitter.
What Mackanin might be doing is trying to get Bourjos as many at bats as possible this Spring to see if he has anything left in his bat. After batting .274 with a .333 on base percentage with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013, Bourjos hit .214 and .200 in 2014 and 2015, respectively. Bourjos' outfield defense has always been considered top-notch, he has much to prove to be in a starting lineup in the Major Leagues.
Of course, the Phillies will not have a designated hitter for most of 2016. Arancebia might spend the beginning of 2016 as a designated hitter at AAA Lehigh Valley. With Gabriel Lino and Andrew Knapp doing most of the catching, Arancebia could be depth for the Phillies at the catching position or as a potential first base option if there is an injury to either Ryan Howard or Darin Ruf. Without a designated hitter, Ruiz or Rapp could hit sixth.
Hernandez and Galvis both have spent time at the top of the Phillies lineup. Hernandez did a respectable job with his bat in 2013 as he was thrown into center field. Hernandez could get the call again if he is hitting well and Bourjos is not deemed the answer at leadoff hitter.
Of note: there is no Cody Asche in the lineup. Asche has been a consistent .245 hitter throughout his Major League career, and finds himself with no real position. With a young pitching rotation, a starting outfield of Altherr, Herrera, and Bourjos and Franco, Galvis, and Hernandez up the middle, they will feel very confident in their defense behind them. As we've written before, Asche may have to find his place in the lineup as a utility player who can play many positions.
Today is only the first day, of course, but often Opening Day in the Grapefruit League is a time to put the team's best foot forward.
