Could Pirates' All-Star Infielder Take Over Leadoff Spot In Lineup?
The Pittsburgh Pirates have gotten some inconsistent production out of their leadoff spot so far this season.
Could Pirates' All-Star Infielder Take Over Leadoff Spot In Lineup? originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh . Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Pittsburgh Pirates ' leadoff spot in the lineup remains a question mark with outfield slugger Oneil Cruz struggling recently at the plate. Cruz has been Pittsburgh's primary leadoff batter this season, but after a recent slump, he was moved around in the lineup. With the Pirates struggling to find consistent production in the leadoff spot, MLB.
com's Bill Ladson believes the team should consider utilizing two-time All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe at the top of the order. "Just when the Pirates thought he was reaching his potential in the batter’s box in mid-April, outfielder Oneil Cruz has slumped badly and has a slash line of . 194/.
248/. 347 with 39 strikeouts in his last 22 games," Ladson wrote Sunday. "As recently as Friday against the Giants, manager Don Kelly put Cruz down in the order, placing him fifth, with Jared Triolo at the top spot.