In a recent interview with the New York Post, Mets manager Mickey Callaway discussed his willingness to bat pitchers 8th in the order, instead of the conventional 9th.
Callaway explained his reasoning, saying:
“If you are putting one of your better hitters batting second, it makes sense to bat the pitcher eighth, so you have another guy in front of that guy when he comes around. Between the eighth and ninth spot if that pitcher is getting a third at-bat, he is dealing anyway so we are in a good spot. If not, the pitcher is going to get two at-bats and get out.