Sun Dec 05, 2021 8:06 am
Well…i am not portraying this as some kind of special approach, just my opinion. For me, it is about value.
Pitchers:
No bp singles on the left but bp hrs.
No bp hrs on the right.
Prototype is seaver top card. Tailor made for hilltop. You can find similar guys with that model.
Nothing wrong with your guys, but not optimized for value IMO if the only consideration is home park—which is never really the case.
For instance, why pay for the lack of LH bp hrs? Id much rather pay for no bp singles on the left side and get a card that is discounted for LH bp hrs.
Hitters:
For on base guys, why put another RHB out there with power leading off? Similarly, if using a RHB as a leadoff table setter who doesnt have bp hrs then why bother, as in why add to your RH vulnerability if the guy doesn't have power? So a lefty at leadoff and maybe a mid order high clutch guy with natural power, and potentially a bottom order lefty who has high obp depending on parks and pitchers of opponents. The mid order clutch lefty is so that you don't get your big boppers in front of him intentionally walked, but still have a decent LH bat sprinkled around to at least give HAL some fits instead of facing Tekulve-types for 3 innings. That's why I love Hilltop--can be challenging but a well constructed team can be a powerhouse.
Consider:
1. You make it easier for opponents to hard righty or severe reverse lefty you to death.
2. At leadoff, maximize the mitigation against facing the pitchers in item 1 by leading off with a lefty who will maximize on base chances for the mashers, especially a guy who can hang in against LHPs with N power.
Of course if you dont mind paying for solo HRs and your opponents didn’t target your vulnerability, then i guess thats a personal preference.
Like i said, does depend on division and league. But i dont see optimized value on the pitching staff IMO but that can be ok depending on the league.