Danny Valencia could earn more at-bats against right-handers

Designated hitter Danny Valencia was already batting a major league-leading .548 (23-for-42) since Aug. 4 before his three-run home run in the eighth inning Thursday night.

But while the right-handed Valencia has mostly been used against left-handers, his game-tying homer came against Yankees righty David Robertson.

Robertson is an unusual case, though. He actually has a lower opponents’ average against left-handed batters (.162) than against right-handed batters (.248), which is part of the reason why Orioles manager Buck Showalter stuck with Valencia.

Showalter did say Valencia could be lined up for other chances against right-handers if he continues his hot streak.

"Danny's in a good place right now, and I'll continue to match him up, but the way he's handling himself, that's how you get dictated more opportunities," Showalter said. "He's been a real contributor for us."

For the season, Valencia is batting .194 against right-handers and .385 against lefties.


(baltimoresun.com)