Ross needs more pinch hit opps.

[bravos4evr]

I talked about this in my latest blog regarding the bench. But thought it needed a thread for us all to discuss it.

I am of the opinion that Ross sat on the bench way too often late in games. (4 PA's as a pinch hitter in 2010!! that's it!!) I'm not saying we should bring him in any earlier than the 8th, but when it's a close game and we need a hit ot HR, why turn to other options? Maybe it was because Diaz was such a good lefties hitter? Maybe Bobby was terrified that McCann would get injured? (which I point out never stopped him from pinch hitting McCann when Ross started) Heck the guy hits .800+ OPS against both sides of the mound and is a veteran presence up there with power!!!

I think that AT THE LEAST bringing Ross into games where the team is down in the 9th has got to happen more often. I'd honestly love to see him get 20-30 PA's as a PH next season.

What say you?

[-Dr. Brave-]

Unless the Braves carry a third catcher, it's unlikely we'll see Ross anytime before the 9th inning, for injury reasons, as you mentioned. If the Braves are behind in the 9th, hopefully we'll see him being used more than Bobby Cox used him.

Unless we're talking Diory Hernandez, there are likely to be other acceptable platoon/match-up options to pinch-hit. Acceptable meaning that it wouldn't be worth the risk for the relatively small upgrade Ross would bring at the plate.

Should be interesting to see whether Gonzalez will handle his bench/bullpen differently than Cox did.