The Wilpons have a history of preferring “name,” veteran players over youngsters (Gonzalez and Bautista last year). They have a history of not sitting high salaried players (Bruce and Frazier both played daily while hurt). On that basis these four players will play almost every day
Lagares CF
Frazier 1B/3B
Lowrie 1B/3B
Cano 2B
That leaves McNeil as a pinch hitter/runner since he’s unlikely to be inserted as a defensive replacement. Alonso will stay in the minors barring injury.
The easy answer is to move Frazier or Lagares which would free up McNeil for more regular play. Possibly Frazier or Lagares could be traded for a similar-salaried pitcher who’s not performing well. Another answer is to package Alonso for a pitcher. But as currently constructed I don’t see Alonso and McNeil playing much. I disagree with the talk, and with Skillz, that McNeil will play much in the outfield. I can’t see Conforto or Nimmo sitting for McNeil. It would be Bruxton coming in late for defensive purposes, not McNeil. And Nimmo in center with McNeil in right is something a rebuilding team would try, not a “win now” one.
Sure you could rotate players in and out on a regular basis but I believe, and winning teams confirm, that a regular set lineup is best. So as currently constructed this is the lineup imo (not in batting order)
Nimmo rf
Lagares cf
Conforto lf
Lowrie 3b
Rosario ss
Cano 2b
Frazier 1b
Ramos c
It's nice to have a lot of horsepower in the engine room but you need some in the wheelhouse too.
