Patterson Leading Off Again

Great post on the Cub Reporter about Corey Patterson batting leadoff as noted on MLB.com.

One year ago, the Cubs weren't sure if Patterson was healed from a severe knee injury. He played 157 games in 2004, and Baker projects the center fielder will be leading off again.

"I need some speed," Baker said of his lineup. "If he could cut the strikeouts one-third or half,
think how effective he'll be."

The problem with Patterson is pitch selection, something hitting coach Gene Clines will focus on. Baker wasn't worried.

"He'll get it. He's a smart kid," Baker said.

It looks like Dusty will try him there once again this season. What I like most about the post is Alex's comment that it doesn't matter much where you bat as long as you get the right players in the lineup to begin with. In other words, don't play Niefi Perez or Jose Macias if you want to win.

Alex's simulator also confirmed what my simple analysis done last season when discussing Barry Bonds did. Even moving a great player like Bonds up in the lineup produces only slightly more than one extra win per season. Alex noted that moving Derrek Lee up last season would produce only 7 more runs, less than one win.