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The Mets and Royals have each released their lineups for Game 1 of the World Series. Both lineups should look familiar to fans of each respective team, save for the inclusion of a designated hitter for the Mets.
With right-hander Edinson Volquez on the mound for the Royals, the Mets' lineup is identical to the one they have been using against right-handed pitchers in the playoffs. Curtis Granderson and Daniel Murphy will look to anchor the top of the lineup, as they have during the playoff's first two rounds, while Kelly Johnson will DH and slot in ninth.
The Royals will also use a lineup identical to the one they used in their clinching Game 6 of the ALCS. Alcides Escobar will lead off, which might seem like a curious move, given his career .298 OBP. However, the shortstop has a .408 OBP during the 2015 postseason and was named ALCS MVP, so it is not surprising to see Ned Yost stick with what has worked. Meanwhile, Alex Gordon—and his team-leading .377 on base percentage during the regular season—will bat eighth.