The Atlanta Braves (1-1) make the short trip to Kissimmee to play the Houston Astros (0-1) for a second straight day starting at 1:05. The Braves pounded the Astros yesterday to the tune of 13 runs, much of which came against Wandy Rodriguez.
Braves Lineup:
1. Jordan Schafer, LF
2. Nate McLouth, CF
3. Chipper Jones, DH
4. Dan Uggla, 2B
5. Jason Heyward, RF
6. Joe Mather, 3B
7. Freddie Freeman, 1B
8. J.C. Boscan, C
9. Diory Hernandez, SS
Tommy Hanson, SP
Not sure of the exact order behind Hanson, but those expecting to see time on the mound today include Jonny Venters, Stephen Marek, Michael Broadway, Jairo Asencio and Eric O'Flaherty. As always, keep an eye on Marek and Asencio as they make their cases for bullpen spots.
McLouth remains in the two hole with Schafer leading off, which I understand, but I do not understand placing Schafer in left field. If Schafer is ever, ever, ever in the Braves outfield, he should be nowhere but center. Chipper is playing his third straight day, which is always good to see. He says he expects to start playing third by the weekend or beginning of next week.
Hernandez gets some work at shortstop, which is worth keeping an eye on all spring as he plays for a roster spot. It's also good to see Mather getting work at third. The Braves may need him there a time or two this season.
Hanson will face the likes of Jason Bourgeois, Clint Barmes, Hunter Pence, Carlos Lee and Bill Hall. Brett Myers and Ryan Rowland-Smith are two pitchers expected to face the Braves.