Note: The Joe Sheehan Newsletter is being shared free for all paying The Athletic subscribers for the duration of the World Series. Below is the piece in its original format from November 1, 2016.
Entering Game 5, the varied and thrilling storylines of this World Series had been better than the play on the field. Three of the first four games had been decided by at least four runs, there had been just one lead change in 36 innings, and the hitters were more likely to strike out than to get a hit.