Part 5/9:
Importance of Hitter Protection in Lineup
Managing how hitters relate to one another is critical across Major League Baseball. Particularly for Mark Vientos, batting second may seem unconventional, but pairing him with Soto behind him is strategically beneficial. Soto commands considerable respect from opposing pitchers, which can alter how they approach Vientos.
Pitchers facing Vientos with Soto looming on deck may approach the at-bat differently—potentially throwing more fastballs or being more cautious with their pitches, offering Vientos a fighting chance to capitalize on a favorable count.