Phillies’ Manager Manuel Considers Various Lineup Combos

There's one certainty in the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup: Ryan Howard will bat cleanup as usual.

Manager Charlie Manuel has plans to try various batting orders in the final 10 days of spring training, including moving Jimmy Rollins out of his customary leadoff spot. Of course, the lineup probably will change numerous times after the real games begin.

At least Manuel is sure about Howard hitting fourth. The 2006 NL MVP has been a fixture in that spot throughout his career.

"Howard is the only guy in our lineup capable of knocking in 130-150 runs," Manuel said.

Case closed.

The Phillies were off on Wednesday, and will take on the Boston Red Sox on Thursday as Grapefruit League play winds down.

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