One of the most common criticisms of major league pitchers in the last two decades is that they don’t pitch inside enough, don’t establish the inside part of the plate to make hitters less aggressive in the box.

Meanwhile, the HARDBALL TIMES examines a trend that the number of hit batsmen has risen dramatically since 1987. So, the pitchers are coming inside, but it’s not helping to reduce run-scoring.

Why not? Armor and posture seem to be the culprits, but more so close-to-the-plate posture, whether or not a batter digs in with protective gear. Which is why Bill James, for years, has endorsed moving the batter’s box away from home plate a total of four inches over a four-year period.