Oakland Pitcher Graveman Bats Fourth In Game

SB Nation:

Oakland Athletics pitcher Kendall Graveman made history on Wednesday night, and it had nothing to do with his work on the mound. Graveman is the first starting pitcher to bat cleanup in a game since a fellow named Babe Ruth on June 1, 1920 with the Yankees.

An injury to Oakland third baseman Danny Valencia forced some shuffling of players, including putting DH Jed Lowrie at second base. That meant the A's pitcher was now in Valencia's fourth spot in the order. Graveman - the first A's starting pitcher dating back to at least 1913 to bat cleanup in a game - struck out in the top of the fifth. (Box)