Michael Cuddyer

Michael Cuddyer expected to start in LF for Mets in NLDS Gm 1

Michael Cuddyer is expected to start in left field for the New York Mets for Game 1 of the NLDS against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

What It Means:

This is perhaps less of an endorsement of Cuddyer and more that Mets manager Terry Collins is playing matchups. He does not want Michael Conforto to face left-hander Clayton Kershaw. Look for this to continue against any lefties the Mets face in the postseason.

Conforto has a .222 wOBA against lefties this season, versus a .371 wOBA when facing right-handers. It's a tiny sample size however, as Conforto has just 15 plate appearances against lefties this season. Cuddyer has a .317 wOBA against lefties this season, which isn't good, but is an improvement over Conforto. It should be mentioned that Cuddyer's career wOBA against lefties is an impressive .376.