That Balls Outta Here
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Phillies vs Rangers: Five questions to ask going into the series

By George Stockburger

Jul 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jerad Eickhoff (48) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jerad Eickhoff (48) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 28, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Jonathan Lucroy (25) follows through on his single against the Los Angeles Angels during a baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Jonathan Lucroy (25) follows through on his single against the Los Angeles Angels during a baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports /

Can Jonathan Lucroy be stopped after a dominant start to the season

No hitter in the Rangers lineup is hotter than catcher Jonathan Lucroy in the final year of his contract in Texas.

While hitting only .263 this season, Lucroy’s bat has picked up over the last two weeks in Texas. He’s hit .361 in his last 40 plate appearances over 10 games, which includes their current six-game winning streak.

Lucroy went 2-4 with a walk on June 2 last season as a Brewer versus the righty Eickhoff in the lone meeting of their careers. He’s yet to face the young Pivetta and Eflin, who may struggle to pitch versus a catcher nearly a decade their elder.

Very few spots are available for the Phillies pitchers to hit and not find Lucroy’s bat blazing through the strikezone. Unfortunately, you’ll have to either pitch to him up or away for the best chance to get him out.

When the pitcher can get ahead, going to the inside appears to be the most effective way to catch Lucroy off guard. When behind in the count, Lucroy has 22 hits when the pitch is thrown to the outside of the plate.

Next: Phillies Farm Report: IronPigs Sizzling

Just count Lucroy as one of many hitters the Phillies pitchers and catchers need to prepare for as they head into Arlington.

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