Spring training provides Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell an opportunity to experiment with various lineup constructions. JetBlue Park is his laboratory and the lineup card is another project for him to tinker with.
One spot in the batting order that should essentially be set in stone for Opening Day is at the top of the lineup, where Dustin Pedroia should reclaim the role he thrived in last season.
There’s a bit of a misconception that a prototypical leadoff hitter must possess blazing speed. Many of the great ones have used speed to wreck havoc on the base paths and get into scoring position ahead of the sluggers in the middle of the lineup.