Through all of the lineup changes the Dodgers have undergone this year, one tweak should stay: Howie Kendrick in the 2-hole, and Justin Turner at 3.
Want proof? Check out these numbers:
Kendrick at #2: 6 games, .542 AVG, .586 OBP, 1 2B, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 3 SB
Turner at #3: 13 games, .277 AVG, .382 OBP, 3 2B, 1 3B, 5 HR, 11 RBI
Any questions?
Obviously, you can't expect Kendrick to continue hitting that well, and Turner isn't exactly a home run threat. But right now, it's all working out, and there's no reason to toy with it.
What each man has going for him is that they're both described as being "professional hitters." They're prone to slumps like anyone is, but they're also experienced enough to figure things out and not keep the slump going for long.
With the All-Star Game approaching us, both guys should receive plenty of consideration. Dee Gordon will get the start at second for the National League, and deservedly so. Kendrick will have competition from Joe Panik, Brandon Phillips, and Kolten Wong for the backup spot. It'll be close.
It'll be tougher for Turner to get in, because the NL is loaded at third. Todd Frazier, Matt Carpenter, Nolan Arenado, and Kris Bryant are just a few names, not to mention someone like Matt Duffy. Hopefully he can get in based on his versatility, and can be the NL's "super sub" for late in the game.
All-Star nod or not, these two have been steadying influences on a team that has gone through many injuries, and many inconsistencies at the plate. They're both locked in right now, and should keep doing what they're good at.
I still say Yasiel Puig should be the leadoff hitter, as he's not hitting home runs, but is fast enough to beat out infield hits, and takes some walks. Don Mattingly can then pair up Adrian Gonzalez and Joc Pederson in the 4-5 slots, and even Yasmani Grandal when he's swinging a hot bat. That's a pretty good lineup.
But it all circles back to keeping Kendrick at two and Turner at three. Donny, please don't mess with that!!!
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