I do believe there is an advantage to both great hitters when they hit back to back. Especially to the first hitter. I believe this advantage can produce better over all statistics.
Maybe protection is the wrong word. But is it a coincident that Prince Fielder hit right next to the last three MVPs. Why did Roger Maris have that year in 1961? Anytime there are two great hitters back to back it requires pitchers to think a bit more. Buck Showalter wouldn't have intentionally walked Barry Bonds with the bases loaded if another Barry Bonds was on deck.
For some, (Barry Bonds) they will compile great statistics no matter what. But there is an advantage when two great hitters are back to back.
It will be interesting to see if Miggy has another MVP year this season.
That said, the new age statistics are here to stay. Every club is involved. Puig's talent is astounding! It will be interesting to see how everything plays out for him. He does make a lot of mistakes, especially on the bases, but he also does things that most everyone else can't do.