D-backs Starting Lineup: Cast of Regulars Backs Godley in New York
If there’s one thing that’s been nice to see lately, it’s that Torey Lovullo’s lineups are starting to become downright predictable. And that’s a good thing. Unpredictability seemed to be the most common way to describe Lovullo’s management style, and the team was thriving under it, at least for the first half of the season.
Zack Godley takes the mound for the D-backs tonight seeking to improve on his 3.13 ERA. Godley’s .80 HR/9 innings pitched is tops on the team. The main reason for that is that he’s got a groundball rate of 54.9%. The interesting part of tonight’s matchup is that the Mets actually have the highest flyball percentage in the league – 41.2%. That may explain why they’re fourth in the league in home runs. As long as Godley keeps the ball on the ground tonight he should be fine.
Backing Godley is David Peralta, batting leadoff, followed by A.J. Pollock, Jake Lamb, Paul Goldschmidt and J.D. Martinez. Lamb has had a couple decent games here and there in the second half but he’s still slashing a paltry .217/.355/.487. That’s well below his line of .279/.376/.546 in the first half, one that led to his first selection to the All-Star team. A lot of that success came from him hitting from the four-hole but Lovullo had so far refused to put him back there after the break and continues to play him in the third spot in the order.
Following Martinez in the order is Daniel Descalso, Chris Iannetta, and Ketel Marte. Marte has been so impressive since being recalled in June. He’s batting .267/.341/.442 with four home runs in 135 plate appearances. With a 20% K rate, a little plate discipline will go a long way for Marte.
Today's #Dbacks lineup in New York. pic.twitter.com/kR6kr8jxf1
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) August 23, 2017
