87 replies to this topic

[ivanbalt]

Santander is such a frustrating player. I'm so torn on extending or dealing.

His approach lately has been terrible.  Take a couple pitches.

[jamesdean]

His approach lately has been terrible.  Take a couple pitches.

That advice could be given to most of the hitters in this lineup.  It's like they can't wait to get the game over with. 

[Mackus]

Complaints about the offense ring somewhat hollow. Still the highest run total in the AL, although fractionally behind Cleveland in runs/game.  Always room to improve, I guess, since runs are theoretically limitless. Pace has fallen just below 850 for the year which was my goal, so sure, lets score some more.  But come on, they've been hitting great all year.  Sometimes even great hitting teams have a bad series or week.  Walk rate is the only thing that needs collective improving.  Given the organizational emphasis on swing decisions and not chasing, the skillset strengths of most of the young guys, and that they were fine at drawing walks last year, I expect that to be better without needing to sacrifice much if any pop over the remainder of the year.

[NewMarketSean]

They hit very few balls hard last night. Lots of weak pop ups. Super annoying especially against a high-walk pitcher for the MFY.

[jamesdean]

I think they've become seduced by the early homerun rate and with the run production they've had, I guess its hard to argue against it. But they've taken the free swinging approach to another level and it can be annoying to watch. I don't know where they rank with RISP but on the surface, it seems they're struggling in that department.

[NewMarketSean]

8th best average with RISP. 

 

.275

[jamesdean]

8th best average with RISP. 

 

.275

But they're 23rd in runners left in scoring position.  So, while they may be tied for 3rd in runs scored, they're also leaving a decent amount on the bases.  I guess that tells you how prolific this offense could potentially be. 

[Mackus]

But they're 23rd in runners left in scoring position. So, while they may be tied for 3rd in runs scored, they're also leaving a decent amount on the bases. I guess that tells you how prolific this offense could potentially be.

The best offenses always leaves the most runners on base, for obvious reasons. Agree there is even more upside of this year's team. I don't / didn't expect them to hit homers at this rate but the lineup is incredibly deep so think the runs will continue to come even if power dips back a bit.