Team USA's manager, Mark DeRosa, faces a challenging task as he prepares for the World Baseball Classic final against Venezuela. With a star-studded roster, DeRosa must make crucial lineup decisions that could determine the outcome of the game. Here's an in-depth analysis of the three biggest lineup dilemmas he's likely to encounter.
Catcher Conundrum
One of the most intriguing decisions revolves around the catcher's position. Pete Crow-Armstrong and Bobby Smith are both strong contenders, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Crow-Armstrong, a switch-hitter, has been a consistent performer with a 1.074 OPS, including a two-homer game against Italy. His defensive skills in center field are also impressive, making him a valuable asset. On the other hand, Smith, a backstop for the Dodgers, has been struggling at the plate in the WBC, going 0-for-9 with four walks and five strikeouts. However, Smith's defensive capabilities as a catcher are superior to Crow-Armstrong's, and his recent hot bat could be a deciding factor. DeRosa must weigh the benefits of a switch-hitter against the stability of a strong defensive catcher.
Third Base Battle
The third base position presents another interesting dilemma. Kyle Henderson and Alex Bregman are both vying for a spot in the lineup, but their strengths differ. Henderson, a shortstop, has been shifted to third base and has performed admirably, batting .429 with two home runs in the tournament. His defensive skills and left-handed bat make him a strong candidate. Bregman, a veteran player, has shown patience at the plate, with a .421 OBP, but his batting average of .182 in the WBC is a cause for concern. Bregman's strong glove gives him an edge, but his right-handed bat might be a liability against left-handed pitchers. DeRosa must decide whether to go with the hot-hitting Henderson or the more experienced Bregman.
Center Field Choice
The center field position is a battle of power and speed. Both Crow-Armstrong and Byron Buxton offer exceptional abilities, but their performances in the WBC differ. Crow-Armstrong's elite glove and 1.074 OPS make him a strong contender, especially after his impressive display against Italy. Buxton, on the other hand, has a 30.2 ft./sec. sprint speed and an All-Star season under his belt, making him a valuable asset in center field. DeRosa must choose between the hot-hitting Crow-Armstrong and the versatile Buxton, considering their defensive skills and offensive capabilities.
In conclusion, DeRosa's lineup decisions will significantly impact the outcome of the World Baseball Classic final. The catcher's position, third base, and center field choices are all intriguing and could have a profound effect on the team's performance. With multiple viable options, DeRosa must carefully consider each player's strengths and weaknesses to make the right calls and lead Team USA to victory.
