Texas Rangers' Lineup Changes: What Needs To Be Done

The Texas Rangers' have been a solid team so far in 2009. And surprisingly, the thing that is keeping them in the AL West race has been their pitching. Kevin Milwood is having a great year, as are other young pitchers such as Matt Harrison and Frank Francisco.

Imagine how good the Rangers could be if they were hitting like they could be. Yes, the Rangers are near the top of the league in home runs, but they are near the bottom of the league in batting average, which is one very important statistic. A lineup change is needed in Arlington to be able to take advantage of each hitters' strengths.

Lineup vs. LHP

1.  Michael Young, 3B. The most consistent hitter on the Rangers and the most likely to get on base to set up the big hitters.

2.  Marlon Byrd, LF. Has regularly hit around .300 for the Rangers and brings speed and hustle to the top of the lineup.

3.  Josh Hamilton, CF. Does this really need to be explained?

4.  Andruw Jones, DH. Has given the best protection to Hamilton.

5.  Nelson Cruz, RF. Major power hitter is still developing.

6.  Ian Kinsler, 2B. A better place for Kinsler where he can drive in more runs with his upper-cut swing.

7.  Hank Blalock, 1B. Productive hitter has been the most clutch this season.

8.  Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C. Not a great hitter, but has been a stud behind the plate.

9.  Elvis Andrus, SS. Having an excellent rookie year, great guy to have as #9 hitter.

Lineup vs. RHP

1.  Michael Young, 3B

2.  David Murphy, LF. Other than Young, has been Rangers' most consistent hitter after terrible start.

3.  Josh Hamilton, CF

4.  Andruw Jones, DH

5.  Hank Blalock, 1B

6.  Ian Kinsler, 2B

7.  Nelson Cruz, RF

8.  Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C

9.  Elvis Andrus, SS