​George Springer is back in the lineup today, batting fourth, which seems like a sensible choice. I’m not sure if leading off would be better, but this setup likely gives him a solid chance to contribute. It’s funny how much we fixate on batting order; it’s one of those variables that’s easy to notice and judge, even though its impact isn’t always decisive.
On a lighter note, the lineup now includes a playful addition—a toy dragon. I almost typed dragon, then corrected myself to toy, as if the team actually possesses a real dragon. Even Rogers would be impressed by that level of whimsy. Anything that helps remind the players to enjoy the game is a positive, and I’m fine with suggesting that a lighter mood might be part of why they’ve been scoring so many runs lately.
In this season’s usual churn of umpires, we’re saying goodbye to several familiar faces as contracts come to an end. CB Bucknor, Laz Diaz, Brian O’Nora, Lance Barksdale, Marvin Hudson, Tony Randazzo, and Andy Fletcher are leaving after being offered buyouts. It’s nice to see MLB taking proactive steps, even if the change feels a bit overdue. Still, it’s a move in the right direction, and the sport could benefit from some new voices behind the plate.
Today’s game is an early one, starting at 3:45 Eastern, which is handy for viewers who want to catch the action without waiting too long. If you’re looking to optimize search visibility, that early slot can help with SEO signals, pairing well with keywords like “early game today,” “3:45 Eastern start,” and “baseball lineup news.”