Question for Angels fans: Why did the DH bat ninth in Monday's game against the Yankees?

Question

Reggie Willits was the Angels' DH, batted ninth even though his average is almost 100 points higher than the starting eighth batter (.297 vs. .205). Why on earth would Scioscia have the DH hitting at the bottom of the order--it doesn't make any sense to me. Is this the usual strategy for the Angels?

Harmony,

I don't really follow La Russa so I don't know why he uses odd batting orders. As for the Yankees' order, with everyone but Damon hitting over .280, I didn't see anything odd about Cabrera batting ninth. With such a consistent lineup, I think seniority is a major factor for Torre's batting order.

Rocky,

If Willits sucks, can't the Angels scrape up one good batter for DH? Is their hitting that bad?

Answer 1

The Angels havent had a "traditional" DH all season. Theyve been piecing the position together with guys that would hit in the bottom 3rd of the lineup all year. The only reason I can see for Willits Hitting before Mathis is for the reason that he DOES hit for higher average and also has some speed (25 stolen bases isnt something to laugh at). Getting him on in the ninth spot sets up the top 3rd to manufacture runs. He gets on, maybe steals second, Figgins singles and he scores..... Scioscia is king of the small ball and works it to perfection.

Answer 2

That is a question for manager Scioscia to answer. The next game-time call-in radio show... call up and ask him. All managers do the talk-show thing before the game begins.
Another thing... there's no set position in the batting order for the DH. Sometimes it depends on if the opposing pitcher is right-hander or a lefty.
Some DH's hit better against some pitchers than others.
There's a myriad of reasons. Again, call the show and ask him.

Answer 3

Willits sucks and he's batting 9th because he can't hit a homerun!

Answer 4

It does remind one of Tony LaRussa.

Then again, who batted 9th for the Yanks tonight?