uncoach posted: Lowering the mound doesn't really even out the advantage pitching has currently. The way relief pitching is used today compared to 1968 is completely different and the great majority throw 95+. Big boys are getting paid for production, not moving runners over with ground balls. That's on GM's/organizational philosophy, not individual hitters with "poor AB's and coaching", IMHO.
The problem is that these guys are getting paid for production, but not producing. I agree that some players have body types and attributes that point them in the direction of HR/K every AB, but that is not the case for every player. There are plenty of guys taking the elevate the ball approach and it isn't working out. They're not making adjustments because people keep telling them they don't get paid to ground out. Which is funny, because all they do is strikeout and hit mile high popouts. When the numbers aren't there you have to make an adjustment and it is not being made. Whether that is the fault of the players, the coaches, the GMs telling them HR or bust, it isn't working and they're being bailed out by the pitchers are too good argument. If the pitching is better than ever, why have a swing that puts you at a high risk for strikeouts? At least be able to make adjustments with 2 strikes.
HRs aren't what fans want, more balls put in play is what fans want. 25 total Ks in a game is the problem, not the lack of HRs.
I root for a HR hitting team. They're unbearable to watch anytime they face a decent pitcher.