Base runners will give hitters the opportunity to get more quality pitches to hit. The pitcher is just as valuable when protecting the plate against runners advancing as the catcher. The Astros run well on the base paths.
This was on display during the ALCS, as the Astros used their abilities on the base paths to advance and score runs. Base runners apply pressure, and pressure is good for the hitters to capitalize on at the plate.
Adjustments Going Forward
As I wrote in a previous article, the Astros need to simplify their approach at the plate.