“Keep It Simple, Stupid!”
It’s a statement that has been applied to many situations in life. I’m not sure who gets credit for creating this “rule” but it applies very clearly to pitching.
Many times, the situation tells you what you want to happen, and thus how you should pitch to a hitter. Of course, all pitcher parents think the best outcome is a K, but that isn’t always realistic or the best approach.
You have a runner at third and less that two outs, you want to try to keep the ball in the infield. Pitch to get a ground ball!
You have a runner at first, with no outs, and expect a bunt, you want to try to get a pop up or ball that’s hard to bunt. Pitch to get a ball in the air!
Simple!
