You really think that the Rays would have rather faced the guy leading the AL in avg vs the rookie? I think Kipnis would have been walked regardless. The Rays struggle to score runs as much as the Tribe.Terry and his bunts. Let me give this struggling pitcher a free out while simultaneously taking the bat out of Kip's hands. Brilliant move, skip.
So shorn 2-0, with an offense offense struggling, Cash would face the Tribes best hitter with a RISP instead of the rookie SS with a 550 OPS? I think you pitch around Kipnis regardless.Walking Kipnis without first base open? I doubt it. But sacrificing made it a no doubter.
So shorn 2-0, with an offense offense struggling, Cash would face the Tribes best hitter with a RISP instead of the rookie SS with a 550 OPS? I think you pitch around Kipnis regardless.
Do I think they walk Kip intentionally if 1st base isn't open? No. I don't.
Do they pitch very carefully? Yes.
Giving up the free out is also part of the equation. Bourn has some wheels. You aren't all that concerned with the DP. Sacrificing gives away an out AND guarantees Kip has zero shot at doing damage.
You're just pissed that he has only 1 KThat 10 pitch at-bat might cost him in the end though.