http://www.sbnation.comhttp://www.sbnation.com/users/Thomas%20Walker Posts made by Thomas Walker on SB Nation http://www.athleticsnation.com/2006/6/20/141020/101 Thomas Walker Tue, 20 Jun 2006 18:10:20 -0000 <p>One of the disadvantages of a young team is the lack of familiarity with the constant travel a season demands. &nbsp;The A's have a great record when they have a day off for travel. (6-1) Without that extra day they are (3-8). &nbsp;Small sample size but getting to be significant.</p> <p>Last night the offense was missing. &nbsp;It seems we hit into double plays significantly more often in the first game of a series after a travel day. &nbsp;In NY on the first trip we hit into 5 the first game. &nbsp;Last night we hit into four.</p> <p>I am sure the A's coaching staff are aware of this. &nbsp;I know they adjust the batting practice routine and warm ups depending on the circumstances and weather. &nbsp;Is there anything we might suggest to counteract this trend?</p> <p>As players get healthy perhaps a system of mandatory days off and setting the starting line-up a day in advance, (pre-travel) might help. &nbsp; Let the players know they have to be prepared to go on short rest. &nbsp;Give them an opportunity to prepare. &nbsp;Give some guys a day off on the travel day so they can prepare to be ready the first game of the series. &nbsp;We do this with starting pitchers already. &nbsp;They seem to be able to prepare well for these games. &nbsp;Perhaps we should do the same for the relief pitchers and the position players.</p> <p>And whatever they are doing with batting practice after a travel day, I would try something different. &nbsp;It has to be more than a coincidence that everyone is more prone to hit into double plays in those games.</p> <p>Or is this simply an unavoidable consequence of modern day baseball?</p>