It would seem to be a controversial strategy. When the team in the field finds itself under a scoring threat from its opponent because the team has runners on second and third and less than two outs, it would seem the last thing the defensive team would want to do is issue an intentional walk to load the bases. However, teams do it all the time, and the strategy can produce great rewards --- or great pain.
Double Play
When the team at bat has runners on second and third base with less than two out, it is almost certainly guaranteed that it will get at least two separate at-bats to drive in runs. However, if the team in the field decides to issue an intentional walk to the next batter and load the bases, it sets up the possibility of the double play. If the following batter hits a sharp ground ball to any of the infielders, it sets up the possibility of a conventional double play involving a force play at second, third or home and then also throwing out the runner at first base. This can end the inning suddenly.
Weak Hitter
A team may choose to walk a batter who is a strong hitter to load the bases in order to face a weaker hitter. This can be done at any point in the inning, but is more likely to be done with two outs. This was frequently done by opponents of the San Francisco Giants when Barry Bonds was at the peak of his career in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Bonds would often get intentionally walked in order to keep him from belting an extra-base hit. Instead, opponents were more than happy to take a chance with a batter like Jeff Kent, who was a fine hitter but nowhere near as dangerous as Bonds.
End of Game
When the visiting team is in the field in the last inning of a tie game, loading the bases may give the team in the field the opportunity to set up a force play at home plate. If the team at bat has a player on third base with less than two outs, the team in the field cannot afford to give up the run or it will lose the game. It is much easier to get the runner out when you are not required to tag the runner. The other runners on base don't matter because the game ends when the runner on third base scores. Setting up a force play makes it easier for the defense to execute a play.
Pressure on the Hitter
One of the consequences of walking a hitter or two to load the bases is that the hitter who does come up faces immense pressure. That batter realizes that the success or failure of the inning is dependent on him having a successful at-bat, and that knowledge creates pressure. Some batters actually respond better to that pressure and hit better in that situation. However, many batters may not respond as well when the focus and the pressure is at its peak.
Member Comments