Pirates Approach to Holding Runners

[Darkstone42]

I heard on the broadcast today that Hurdle doesn't want his pitchers to concern themselves with holding runners, which is why we don't stop a lot of stolen bases. He wants the pitchers to focus simply on pitching.

So whoever catches for us, not matter how good a defensive catcher, will be unsuccessful at throwing out base stealers.

But looking at our team ERA, it's hard to argue with the results.

 

[Illinest]

There have been some recent articles that suggest that holding runners is over-rated. Not sure if I like the way they made the conclusion but it's not a crazy idea.

 

[sychmd]

Obviously, the game is scoring runs and not allowing the other team to score runs. giving up bases leads to scoring runs, unless you give up HRs.
allowing a leadoff guy get to second on a steal, avoids a DP and allows him to score without actual basehits.

ideally, a pitcher doesnt give up extra bases, but also minimizes the hitting of the batter, with special attention to RISP.
a lot of it depends on the pitcher.

his mental make up - some pitchers are bulldogs and dont want to get beat at any phase of the game.

his mental makeup with RISP - some pitchers are incredible. maddux wasnt a strikeout pitcher, but it is amazing how many of them he got with a runner at 3rd and less than 2 out.

how good his move to the bases, esp first - the better the move, the closer they stay.

his ability to multi-task - some guys can pay attention to the runner and not get distracted from the task at hand of getting the hitter.

his motion to the plate - how much a quicker motion will affect his stuff.

does he throw more heat - easier to hold a runner and give a catcher a chance

does he throw strikes - less chance of running when behind in count.

does he keep it around the plate - easier for catchers to throw fastballs that are strikes.

ans the catcher has a part in it, how good your catcher is will obviously deter runners. if your catcher is poor, why waste too much time holding them on if the catcher isnt going to throw out many of the ave to above average "base-stealers" (note, i didnt use runners).

bottom line. this is where knowing your personnel, and putting their skills into the decsional balance and see which way it tips. this is where deviations from the old school mentality occur and where sports psychology come more into play. hurdle might have a different strategy for each battery combo based on the above items and more.