Pop has pitched in like every game this season, brought in to face consecutive lefties. The starting pitching and bullpen construction set him up to fail.
I would love to see even more righty protection around Varsho (2 RHB ahead and 2 RHB behind). Basically make it as difficult as possible for the manager to bring in a lefty just for Varsho.
The way the lineup is constructed today you can bring in a lefty to face Varsho-Kirk-Belt.
Right now I think they need to sit back and see who takes a step forward during the season. If you get rid of Espinal you lose your backup SS and best lefty masher. If you get rid of Merrifield you're exposing Kiermaier and Varsho to a lot of left handed pitching. Biggio is your best option against righties.