Dakota Southwest

Would it somehow depend partially on how you want to sequence your pitchers, not putting similar pitchers back-to-back, rather than a popularity contest? No specific ideas as to what order would work best, but would want to give the least ready pitcher the extra time to prepare.

Agree with Rosterman that good defense comes from having players working consistently with the same lineup. Having player flexibility was a great thing with all the injuries last year, but it is hard to establish greatness without consistency and repetitions with the same crew. Also well said with the offensive lineup. OK to have a few changes when facing left-hander or junk pitcher vs power hurler, but hard to establish a comfort zone when you are all over the place. It's all part of managing personalities vs the probability controlled version of computerized games. Playing hunches, showing trust in the will of your player to not be beaten. Taking the small risk seldom produces big reward. Teach players to bunt if the defense is playing deep, force them to be honest instead of playing deep or shading toward a base to gain a competitive advantage; much rather see 4 runs off of bunting and base stealing than 2 off the almighty homer. Might add to allow pitcher to get extra out or two if he looks like he does have it...today

While I do not disagree with any of the posters, I would point out that it is the obligation of the umpires to remain in control of the game entrusted to them at all times. When you saw the umpire trying to intercept Pete Maki to warn him he'd have to remove his pitcher, you saw an umpire who realized the umps had not fulfilled their obligation to communicate clearly and distinctly. Twins management is not absolved of their responsibility to have their head in the game, but with the hit batter and the confusion on the field, we need to expect more professionalism from our umpires as well.