Statistics can be a helpful and important part of our game at the higher levels. In today’s game, we have much more preparation that is going into identifying pitchers tendencies, video analysis, and statistical data that can help you determine the best game plan to increase your chances for success. One basic element of game preparation is the line up you select to compete with on any given day. How long do we stick with a line up and what are the basic thoughts that go into putting a line up together. At the college level, I have always felt that we play a game of numbers and percentages. The more you play an opponent, the more the numbers and tendencies become meaningful and can give you valuable information.
I just came off a weekend where we left 35 runners on base in a three game series and on Friday evening of the next weekend, we left 8 on base. I am not one that changes the line up on a regular basis and have always felt that the female athlete does not always embrace change. But sometimes during the year when your offense gets in these stagnant modes, change is sometime good. Here are some basic considerations for you to follow in putting together a productive line up if your team is blessed with these talents! These are in order from 1 to 9.
- Best On Base Percentage, generally fastest as well, so could be your best slapper. (We keep statistics on our hitters On Base Percentage when they lead off an inning.)
- Next best On Base Percentage, generally fast as well, so could be your next best slapper – Also a spot for a good bunter that can move runners over and makes consistent contact on the ground
- Best overall hitter considering Batting Average & RBI
- Best power hitter considering Slugging Percentage & RBI
- 2nd Best power hitter considering Slugging Percentage & RBI
- A lead off type hitter that also can drive in runs
- Next Best Hitter considering Batting Average
- Next Best Hitter considering Batting Average
- Traditionally has been the weakest batter in the order, but you want someone who’s not too slow to avoid effectiveness of the top of the order. If you have a 3rd best slapper – good place for them.
There are many considerations if you do not have the typical talent listed above. Many teams would put their best hitter in the leadoff spot to get more At Bats. I have also used the following guidelines: Top On Base Percentage descending in 1-3, Top RBI in 4-6, 7-9 in descending order of quality.
Another thought from the book called “The Book”: “Your three best hitters should bat somewhere in the #1, #2, and #4 slots. Your fourth and fifth best hitters should occupy the #3 and #5 slots. The #1 and #2 slots will have players with more walks than those in the #4 and #5 slots. From #6 through #9, put the players in descending order of quality.”
Have Fun and Best of Luck!
Coach Candrea