Chip Carey mentioned that Atlanta was starting a right-handed heavy lineup -- including Matt Diaz over Jason Heyward -- because Blanton stunk against right-handed hitters, which is the explanation that Fredi Gonzalez gave.That sounded like small-sample shenanigans, but, look at that, it's been true for four straight years. He really has been much better against left-handed hitters. Although, it's probably more accurate to say he has a problem with hitters, and right-handed hitters more so.
Phillies Vs. Braves: Braves Squander Second-Inning Chance, Still 1-1
You couldn't tell about the reverse-platoon splits when Freddie Freeman was up, though. The rookie first baseman took two swings and murdered the ball twice -- one for a foul down the right-field line, and one for a lead-off double in the second inning. He looked completely comfortable. Maybe it's like a Wiley E. Coyote thing, where if he doesn't look down at the platoon splits/cliff, he doesn't fall. Or maybe, hey, Joe Blanton.
But after getting Freeman to third with just one out, though, Jack Wilson struck out. Tim Hudson struck out after that, and the threat was over.
See More:
