Braves Show Off New Look Lineup for Fried's Grapefruit League Debut
The Atlanta Braves are trying some new things in Grapefruit League action.
We saw Spencer Strider not satisfied with his uber-impressive two pitch mix that led the league in strikeouts last season, with the righty unveiling a new curveball against the Rays on Saturday.
And now, manager Brian Snitker is moving some things in the lineup, with Michael Harris II coming out of his standard 9-hole to bat 6th today.
Here's how the Braves will line up for their matchup with the Baltimore Orioles:
RF Ronald Acuña Jr
2B Ozzie Albies
3B Austin Riley
1B Matt Olson
DH Marcell Ozuna
CF Michael Harris II
C Travis d'Arnaud
LF Jarred Kelenic
SS Orlando Arcia
SP Max Fried
We've speculated this offseason on where to bat Harris, who has been insanely productive out of the #9 hole in the lineup (and has expressed a preference to stay there), but also would stand to get up to 100 less at-bats over the course of a 162-game season than if he batting towards the top of the lineup.
Snit's splitting the difference here, moving him up to #6 and playing Kelenic at #8 and Arcia at #9.
Let's see how productive this iteration of the lineup ends up being against the Orioles at home from CoolToday Park in North Port.
How to Watch The Atlanta Braves on Monday, February 26th
Unfortunately, today's game isn't being broadcast, so you can't watch unless you're in the stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 PM ET. The audio broadcast is available on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network.
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