The pitcher has got only a ball. I've got a bat. So the percentage in weapons is in my favor and I let the fellow with the ball do the fretting.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
In the minor leagues, previous to 2008, I took a lot of pitches. I prided myself on on-base percentage. I made sure that I made the pitcher work.
When I'm at the plate, I'm not thinking about what I'm trying to do with the bat - I'm thinking about what the pitcher is trying to do with the ball.
In my own case I have frequently faced the pitcher when I had no desire whatever to hit. I wanted to get a base on balls.
I'm not really a pitcher; I just play one in the movies.
My pitching philosophy is simple - keep the ball way from the bat.
If you can get an out on one pitch, take it. Let the strikeouts come on the outstanding pitches. Winning is the big thing. If you throw a lot of pitches, before you know it, your arm is gone.
There are three types of pitchers you have to deal with. Some, you just have to tell what town they're in, remind them where they are. Some, you remind them about mechanics, and some, you have to bust their tail. You have to make them your friend and have them trust you.
I've got four pitches now. I don't have to use them all the time, but I've got them in my pocket now for when it's necessary.
I can understand the fact you don't want the ball slipping out of a pitcher's hand because someone can get hurt.
You got the ball in your hands and you're in command, and if you get your good pitch where you want it, nobody's gonna hit you.