Bill Conlin: Comparing Phillies, Yankees lineups the right way

October 28, 2009
(Page 3 of 3)

 

No. 7: Ben Francisco

vs. Robinson Cano

 

Ben brings speed, power and a good glove to the role (and could still wind up batting No. 9) but has been lightly played since coming from Cleveland in the Cliff Lee deal. Cano is New York's Utley, a beast of an offensive second baseman with future MVP potential. He's the elephant in the Yankees' room.

RINGS: Francisco 0, Cano 0.

EDGE: Cano.

 

Story continues below.

No. 8: Pedro Feliz

vs. Nick Swisher

 

These guys are viewed by many as the weakest links in these powerful lineups. Well, Feliz specialized in hits with runners in scoring position. Where else do you get 82 RBI from the back end of the order (Pedro normally hits No. 7 in the NL)? Where else? Swisher's 29 homers helped drive in 82 runs, as well.

RINGS: Feliz 1, Swisher 0.

EDGE: Swisher.

 

No. 9: Carlos Ruiz

vs. Melky Cabrera

 

Two of baseball's most quietly efficient players (and Chooch could still wind up No. 7), Cabrera can lead off an inning and set the table for Jeter and Damon. Ruiz can pop one in Yankee Stadium Lite.

RINGS: Ruiz 1, Cabrera 0.

EDGE: Even.

 

Lineup scorecard

 

Phillies 3, Yankees 3, Even 3.

Send e-mail to bill1chair@aol.com.

For recent columns, go to

http://go.philly.com/conlin.

 

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