There are no surprises at all in the Rangers' starting lineup for Game 1 of the World Series. The lone position of interest coming into the week was right field for games played in San Francisco, as Ron Washington would have to make a choice between Vladimir Guerrero, David Murphy, and Jeff Francoeur, but as was revealed a few days ago, Washington is going to give Guerrero the first shot.
World Series Game 1: Vladimir Guerrero Fourth In Rangers Starting Lineup
Guerrero has served as the Rangers’ regular designated hitter for much of the year, batting cleanup. He used to be a decent defensive corner outfielder with a very strong arm, but age has taken its toll, and he no longer moves very well. Washington, though, believes in Guerrero’s bat, and wants to have that proven stick in the middle of his order as often as he can.
The hope is that Guerrero won’t be too much of a liability in the field. If he is, then that’s when Murphy and Francoeur become options. Until Guerrero proves that he can’t do the job, he’ll keep it.
Elvis Andrus, SS
Michael Young, 3B
Josh Hamilton, CF
Vladimir Guerrero, RF
Nelson Cruz, LF
Ian Kinsler, 2B
Bengie Molina, C
Mitch Moreland, 1B
Cliff Lee, SP
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