Fast forward the same situation 5 innings. Why does one run later mean more than one run now? A run is a run; I'll take one in whatever inning I can get it in. If you play for one run that is the best outcome you can expect. You should only play for one run if you know that is all you will need (i.e., late in a game) IMO, it wasn't horrible, merely bad. Barrett is one of the better hitters on the team Dontrell was having problem with control (as evidenced by the walk and then groving one to Murt). JJ was in the hole. Exactly. I understand the conditions. But Barrett is the team's 3rd best hitter and in the 5th slot, an RBI slot. And I especially hate a bunt after a walk. 1. Pitcher could be wild and could give you a free base. 2. Pitcher could groove one not wanting to walk another batter.