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Brewers' Manager Draws Lineups on Napkins
26 Oct
Summary
- Manager Pat Murphy still creates starting lineups on handwritten notes.
- A coaching staff member nicknamed 'Ninja' relays the lineup daily.
- This old-school method is used despite advanced analytics.
In an era dominated by sophisticated analytics, Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy continues to rely on a distinctly old-fashioned method for devising his team's starting lineup. Murphy crafts the lineup each morning on a handwritten note, often a napkin or scrap of paper, which is then digitally disseminated.
This informal process involves "Ninja," a member of the coaching staff, receiving Murphy's notes and forwarding them through the team's technology manager. Murphy's system, while seemingly simple, incorporates strategic considerations such as facing specific pitchers, player performance, and lineup breaks.
Murphy views lineup creation not as a complex task but as a decision-making process involving factors like opponent tendencies and hot streaks. This approach underscores a commitment to traditional baseball strategy, even amidst extensive scouting reports and data provided by the front office and coaching staff.
The manager values familiarity and player at-bats, aiming to optimize the lineup's effectiveness. This unique blend of tradition and tactical insight allows Murphy to maintain his personal touch on the team's daily strategy.
