Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 3/31/2009

Question
This is my first season as a minors coach in little league and I am having a hard time setting a reliable batting order. We have played only five games so its difficult based on stats to help me decide. Do you have any suggestions on what I should do?

Answer
Bill,

At this point, it is more important to put kids based on potential then on stats.  A typical lineup has the first two hitters who can get on base, the third and fourth are your best hitters, fifth and sixth hitters are the kids with some ability, and the bottom of the lineup are your weakest hitters.  That said, the lineup doesn't really matter that much.  Even if you use a completely non optimal lineup, your team won't score all that many fewer runs.

I'd spend more time working on improving your hitters verses worrying about where they should bat.  Just pencil them in and make sure everyone has a good time!

Hope this helps!

Brian