PLAYING TIME: KC shuffles lineup, Matsuzaka back on DL

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Lineup shuffle in KC pushes Escobar to two-hole

Manager Ned Yost has decided to make some lineup changes in Kansas City. Alcides Escobar (SS, KC) is now batting second, with Eric Hosmer (1B, KC) returning to the third spot in the order.  With a career 5% walk rate and .306 on-base-percentage, Escobar isn't the prototypical hitter for that spot in the order, but Yost cited his situational hitting, bunting, and speed as reasons he will get an extended look in that spot.  A 37% hit rate is a big reason he is sporting a .309 batting average, so look for that to drop a bit.  However, after starting 64 games this season batting in the bottom third of the order, Escobar's new spot should have a positive effect on his...

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