Projecting the NLDS starting lineups for the Brewers and Padres

The Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres are set to face off in the National League Division Series, with Game 1 scheduled for October 3rd at 7:30 p.m. As both teams boast impressive offenses during the latter stages of the season, their starting lineups for the NLDS are expected to be intriguing. The Brewers' manager, Pat Murphy, and the Padres' skipper, Craig Stammen, will need to carefully consider their lineup decisions based on the starting pitcher's handedness.

Against a left-handed pitcher, the Brewers will need to decide if they are confident enough in Jake Bauers' recovery from foot and shin injuries to play him in right field. This move would allow Andrew Vaughn, known for hitting lefties hard, to start at first base. The team would then have a choice between Christian Yelich and Gary Sanchez for the designated hitter position.

Additionally, the Brewers could opt to play Garrett Mitchell at center, utilizing his reliable defense, or they might choose to use Luis Lara, who has been primarily at center since his debut.

If faced with a right-handed pitcher, the Brewers could choose Luis Lara at center, trusting his defensive capabilities, or they could opt for Garrett Mitchell, who has proven to be dependable in that role. As for the Padres, their lineup appears more straightforward to construct, regardless of the starting pitcher's handedness.