Matt Williams has explained the flip-flopping of Bryce Harper and Anthony Rendon in the lineup Friday for the Nationals against the Cubs. Harper was moved up from sixth to second after having complained about hitting down in the lineup.
"I think it's a question of trying to create a little bit with Bryce at the top of the lineup, especially against a righty," Williams told the Washington Post. "We've faced three lefties the last three games. I wanted to give him some opportunity to drive runs in and the same holds true for Anthony in that regard. Bryce at the top of the lineup against the right-handed pitcher, he can create some stuff."
It remains to be seen if the switch becomes permanent against both righties and lefties.