Platoon

A platoon is a strategy where two players share a position, with playing time determined by the opposing pitcher's handedness. Left-handed batters typically face right-handed pitchers, and vice versa.

Why Platooning Works

The platoon advantage is based on:

• Opposite-hand advantage: Batters generally hit better against opposite-handed pitchers
• Ball movement: Breaking pitches break away from same-handed batters
• Sight lines: Better view of the pitch from the opposite side

Statistical Advantage

Historically:

• Left-handed batters hit ~20 points higher vs. RHP than LHP
• Right-handed batters hit ~15-20 points higher vs. LHP than RHP
• The advantage is significant over a full season

How Platoons Work

A typical platoon:

• Player A (left-handed): Starts against right-handed pitchers
• Player B (right-handed): Starts against left-handed pitchers
• Both players get regular at-bats
• Neither is a full-time starter

Platoon Advantages

• Maximizes matchup advantages
• Keeps players fresh (rest days built in)
• Fills a position with two partial players
• Can combine two "half" players into one "full" player

Platoon Disadvantages

• Players get fewer at-bats (harder to get in rhythm)
• Some players don't like part-time roles
• Limits lineup flexibility
• Must carry extra roster spots

Famous Platoons

The practice dates back to the early 1900s. Casey Stengel's Yankees were known for platooning in the 1950s.