Hold Runner, Bunt For Hit, And Balks

sreem · 05-16-2018, 11:35 AM

Okay thought I would cover one question and 2 comments, forgive me if these have been covered.

I am trying to gauge the value of utilizing the "Hold Runner" action when playing out games. Has anyone any data or know where to look to find out what the actual effects of this mechanism is? Is it really worth doing or should it be considered situational (i.e. not automatic with a runner on 1st). Would love to see some data on the benefit effects vs. standard pitch with runners on if someone advocates for its use.

On another note, in this iteration of the game it seems to me that Balks and the AI attempting to Bunt For Hit are happening way too often. I do not have concrete data on this, but certainly seems far more frequent compared to previous versions. Could just be confirmation bias, but the need to play "corners in" and "third in" seems to be about 50% of the game even on players rated 40-45 on "bunt for hit".

Would love feedback, both agree and disagree. Thanks.

Critical Mass · 05-16-2018, 05:34 PM

Well Hold Runner means the first baseman is staying very close to the bag. The advantage of this is that it's easier to pick off the runner. Disadvatage is there is now a bigger gap between first baseman and second baseman.

As far as balks, I've played out about 20 games and have seen one balk. Doubt that's a big enough sample, but my vote would be "about right"

IanIachimoe · 05-17-2018, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Critical Mass

Well Hold Runner means the first baseman is staying very close to the bag. The advantage of this is that it's easier to pick off the runner. Disadvatage is there is now a bigger gap between first baseman and second baseman.

As far as balks, I've played out about 20 games and have seen one balk. Doubt that's a big enough sample, but my vote would be "about right"

IIRC, after choosing 'hold runner' you no longer have the option for a pickoff play. I hope that's not the case as it wouldn't make sense.

I always assumed it meant the pitcher used focus on holding the runner (less chance of a steal) so he may not be as effective this at bat. could be wrong, that is all me. I never use it.

in for answers.

05-16-2018, 11:35 AM	#1
sreem All Star Reserve Join Date: Jul 2013 Posts: 673	Hold Runner, Bunt For Hit, And Balks Okay thought I would cover one question and 2 comments, forgive me if these have been covered. I am trying to gauge the value of utilizing the "Hold Runner" action when playing out games. Has anyone any data or know where to look to find out what the actual effects of this mechanism is? Is it really worth doing or should it be considered situational (i.e. not automatic with a runner on 1st). Would love to see some data on the benefit effects vs. standard pitch with runners on if someone advocates for its use. On another note, in this iteration of the game it seems to me that Balks and the AI attempting to Bunt For Hit are happening way too often. I do not have concrete data on this, but certainly seems far more frequent compared to previous versions. Could just be confirmation bias, but the need to play "corners in" and "third in" seems to be about 50% of the game even on players rated 40-45 on "bunt for hit". Would love feedback, both agree and disagree. Thanks. __________________ "What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. Except for bears....."

05-16-2018, 05:34 PM	#2
Critical Mass Minors (Triple A) Join Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 273	Well Hold Runner means the first baseman is staying very close to the bag. The advantage of this is that it's easier to pick off the runner. Disadvatage is there is now a bigger gap between first baseman and second baseman. As far as balks, I've played out about 20 games and have seen one balk. Doubt that's a big enough sample, but my vote would be "about right"