A.J. Griffin was advised a few years ago by Hall of Fame right-hander Bert Blyleven to keep throwing strikes and stay on the attack, even if it means giving up the occasional home run.
Blyleven, who pitched for the Texas Rangers in 1976-77, should know. He’s the MLB record holder for homers allowed in one season (50, 1986). Griffin allowed two in his first 2017 start for the Rangers and has a penchant for surrendering the long ball.
The key for is making sure no one is one base when an opposing hitter goes deep.