batting order for coaches pitch.

Question
I really need your input on a batting order for my coaches pitch team that has a large number of weak hitters.  There are 13 kids on the team made up of 2 very good hitters, 2 above average hitters, 2 average hitters, 2 below average hitter, and 5 poor hitters.  No stealing is allowed and every hitter has to be included in the lineup.  In addition to a batting order using all 13 batters, can I also get one with 12 batters that will have 1 less "average hitter" from the list above?  I have 1 player that will miss about 4 weeks due to surgery.  Thanks so much for your help!

Answer
Hey Richard..
I love these questions...

It is hard when you have 13 batters.. Here goes...

1) Very good hitter (Faster of the 2 hitters)
2) Average hitter  (with speed and can bunt)
3) Very good hitter  (He can NOT be slow as to slow down baserunners. If so, switch him with 6th)

4) Above average hitter (Better power of the 2)
5) Poor hitter (with best eye for walks)
6) Above average hitter
7) Poor hitters (Is not TOO aggressive at the plate)
8) Average hitter
9) Below average hitters
10) Poor hitters
11) Below average hitters
12) Poor hitters (smarter of your weaker players)
13) Poor hitters (faster of your weaker players. You do NOT want to slow down the top of your line-up)


If you space your good hitters throughout the order you may get a run or so, here and there.  If you bunch them a little (above) you should score 3-4 runs two or three times..
If you are pitching your best pitcher, you can spread your hitters out a little more than above.  If you need more runs, then use the order above.

For 12 players, skip over batter 8..
Good Luck.. Let me know how it goes.
Dennis