As a baseball fan, you may have noticed that the crowd often boos when pitchers try to hold runners on base. This is a common tactic used by pitchers to prevent runners from stealing bases, but it can also be seen as a delay tactic that slows down the game. So why does the crowd react negatively to this strategy?
According to former MLB pitcher Dan Haren, “The crowd boos because they want to see action. They want to see the pitcher throw the ball to the plate and the hitter swing the bat. They don’t want to see the pitcher throw over to first base 10 times in a row.”
In other words, holding runners on base can be seen as a boring and repetitive tactic that takes away from the excitement of the game. Fans want to see pitchers challenge hitters and make exciting plays, not waste time trying to prevent runners from stealing bases.
However, holding runners on base can also be an effective strategy for pitchers. By keeping runners close to the base, pitchers can limit their ability to steal and potentially score runs. It can also force hitters to adjust their approach at the plate, knowing that they may not get as many opportunities to hit with runners in scoring position.
Ultimately, the decision to hold runners on base comes down to the pitcher’s individual strategy and the game situation. While it may not always be the most exciting tactic, it can be an effective way to control the game and limit the opposing team’s scoring opportunities.
So the next time you hear the crowd booing as a pitcher repeatedly throws over to first base, remember that it’s not necessarily a reflection of the pitcher’s skill or effectiveness. It’s simply a reaction to the slower pace of the game and the desire for more action and excitement on the field.
