Terry Collins plans the following lineup this season (via Adam Rubin):
1. Jose Reyes
2. Angel Pagan
3. David Wright
4. Carlos Beltran
5. Jason Bay
6. Ike Davis
The second baseman and catcher will bat 7th and 8th.
This is a welcome change from the prior decision-maker, who batted Alex Cora, Jesus Feliciano, Ruben Tejada and Frank Catalanotto at the top of the lineup at various points last season. I think Gary Matthews Jr. batted leadoff once. Maximizing plate appearances for the team's best hitters: very cool. It's amazing that something so elementary is worthy of celebration, but here we are. Thank you to Terry Collins planning a not-insane lineup -- hopefully it sticks.