Philadelphia Phillies: Batting Order Needs a Shake Up

The Philadelphia Phillies continue to struggle against any starting pitcher with an ERA below 4.00. It is evident that a change in the Phillies lineup is long over due.

First and foremost, Jimmy Rollins is no longer the Phillies best option at the leadoff position. Shane Victorino leads the team in AVG .299 and is tied with Jimmy Rollins in runs scored with 42 after spending over two weeks on the DL. Shane will pass him to lead the team in runs sometime this week.

Victorino's OBP is .364 which is 32 points higher than Jimmy's. He also has six more extra-base-hits than Jimmy in 14 less games. The proof is in the numbers, get it together Charlie.

Jimmy Rollins weak pop ups are destroying this teams chances to score runs.

Placido Polanco is struggling in the fifth spot, probably because he is in no way, shape, or form a five-hole hitter. For Polanco to be the best player he can be, he must bat second and only second. Some say he has been playing with soreness, this maybe true but i guarantee you his number will begin to get better once he gets back in to the two spot in the lineup.

Carlos Ruiz was the Phillies most consistent hitter last season and has proved time and time again he hits his best in pressure situations. By hitting him fifth the Phillies can break up all their left handed hitters and give Carlos more chance to bat with runners in scoring position.

If the Phillies place Domonic Brown in the eighth slot, it will give the Phillies speed and power at the bottom of the lineup and also take some pressure off of the rookie.

If I were making the lineup here is how I would have it.

1. Shane Victorino

2. Placido Polanco

3. Chase Utley

4. Ryan Howard.

5. Carlos Ruiz

6. Raul Ibanez

7. Jimmy Rollins

8. Domonic Brown

What is your favorite Phillies lineup?