Kielty Likely Over Drew in Game 1

According to the Herald,

Manager Terry Francona wasn’t ready to announce a Game 1 lineup but acknowledged Kielty was under consideration because of his past success against lefty C.C. Sabathia, who will start the opener for Cleveland at Fenway Park.

“I haven’t spoken to any players yet about what we might do roster-wise or lineup-wise, (but) Bobby certainly has had some success against Sabathia,” Francona said.

Ronnie Mac should definitely get the start over JD when Sabathia pitches, and it has little to do with a few ancient AB's.

Here is Kielty's 3-year line vs. lefties: .313/.372/.494 (.866)

Here is Drew's: .234/.338/.347 (.685)

In fact, Kielty should probably pinch-hit for Drew in any meaningful late-inning situation vs. any lefty reliever, and particulaly against Perez who has an insane platoon split.