Maddon is definitely known for some, well, different lineup decisions—catcher John Jaso leading off in previous seasons is a good example.
Tuesday night's contest featured an even more absurd move, as Maddon penciled in Carlos Pena's name in the No. 1 spot in the order.
Needless to say, I was confused.
Why would Maddon put his best run-producer in the leadoff spot of the order?
Well, I quickly learned why, as Pena followed up the decision by having quite a nice game.
Entering play on Tuesday, Pena was hitting just .116 in May and in the midst of an 0-for-18 slump. He snapped that slide with a home run in the fourth inning off Blue Jays' starter Drew Hutchison that traveled an estimated 452 feet.
The home run was a three-run shot and part of a five-run fourth inning for the Rays.
Pena finished the game 2-for-5 with the home run and three RBI, raising his season average to ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - MLB By Kenny DeJohn