Quote:
Originally Posted by bluejays
I think infield defence is important as they get higher volume. OF, is the question of how many great plays truly save runs. I don’t have facts on it, it’s just my own theory that as long as you’re solid in the OF, greatness isn’t needed at the expense of a bat. I think in the OF a good bat should be the first aim, with average defence being acceptable. Subpar bat with great defence (which may be the case here) doesn’t seem like a good approach considering the amount of the pool they could’ve chosen from in OF.
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I don't know, the way the game is these days with everyone trying to lift the ball and get a launch angle, it seems that outfield defense is even more important than ever. Making an out instead of a ball landing and getting a single or a double is a big deal in the flow of a game. Homeruns aren't going anywhere anytime soon, but keeping men on base down is key to having that homerun count for 1 run and not 2 or 3. Taking an extra base away because you can cut off the gaps or make a strong throw is even more important because it allows your pitcher to throw more strikes or be more aggressive with the batter, or even the next batter if the guy is held to just a single. A double that you turn into a long single is a great way to keep runs against down.
This is one of those things that works well on aggregate, like OBP. You won't always limit runs by having good outfield defense, but as the season goes on, it works well.