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Could Pirates' All-Star Infielder Take Over Leadoff Spot In Lineup?
TL;DR
The Pittsburgh Pirates are considering moving All-Star second baseman Brandon Lowe to the leadoff spot due to Oneil Cruz's recent struggles at the plate.
Key points
- Pittsburgh Pirates leadoff spot is uncertain
- Oneil Cruz has been struggling at the plate
- Brandon Lowe is a two-time All-Star
- Lowe may be moved to the leadoff position
- Cruz has been the primary leadoff batter this season
Pittsburgh PiratesOneil CruzBrandon Lowe
Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe
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 batterâs 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. This is not permanent.
Q&A
Why is Brandon Lowe being considered for the leadoff spot in the Pirates lineup?
Brandon Lowe is being considered for the leadoff spot because Oneil Cruz, the current leadoff batter, has been struggling recently.
What has been Oneil Cruz's performance like this season?
Oneil Cruz has had a recent slump, leading to his movement around the lineup and raising questions about his effectiveness as a leadoff hitter.
How many All-Star selections does Brandon Lowe have?
Brandon Lowe is a two-time All-Star, which adds to the consideration for him to take over the leadoff spot.
