Quote:
Originally Posted by corndog
So, man on first,
next batter walks,
two men on first?  |
You are obviously correct. A runner can advance from a walk.
However, a man on second or third can score on a hit. They will still be on second and third when someone is walked. This is why a pitcher is always okay with walking a batter when players are in scoring position, as it can be advantageous to the pitcher to give more force-out options depending on the situation.
The ability to put the baseball in play and move runners generally carries an advantage. This is one of the reasons why metrics are wrong in the sport. Metrics never seem to calculate the negative aspect of striking out as a batter. If you can advance a runner by putting the ball in play and still be out, then it should always be seen as more positive then striking out. The current metrics factor both as equal.