by Frobby
1. Defense is the most underrated part of baseball. Good defense makes the pitchers look better, and literally lifts the spirits of the team. There’s nothing better than preventing the other team from scoring or getting on base by making a great play. It boosts everyone. Conversely, letting down the pitcher with bad defense gets in the head of the pitcher and the whole team.
2. Defensive skills deteriorate with age. Not at the same rate for all players, but noticeably over time.
3. Corollary: don’t let your team get too old. Don’t fall so in love with your current players that you’re blinded to the fact that their skills won’t stay the same forever.
4. Having an excellent bullpen is also underrated. Winning close games builds morale and confidence. The whole way you feel about close games is impacted by the strength of your bullpen.
5. Not that I really needed a refresher on this, but you’ve gotta get on base to score runs. Solo homers only take you so far.
6. The Yankees and Red Sox may have down periods, but they’ll be short. Don’t get too comfortable.
