Yes. With a big lead, I think pitchers in general are more likely to go after hitters, throw strikes, not nibble. With men on base, the pitcher is less likely to be concerned about a run or two scoring as opposed to getting outs. Example A: Cubs up 8-1 in the 7th inning. Opposing team has men on 2nd and 3rd with one out. Pitcher not really concerned about the men on base as he is about the hitter. Any type of out works, regardless of a run scoring or not. Play for outs in hopes of not giving up a big inning. Example B: Cubs up 2-1 in the 7th inning. Opposing team has men on 2nd and 3rd with one out. Pitcher may pitch around the batter setting up DP, look for a K, etc. Pitcher concentrating on not allowing a run to score. I think giving up a run or two in example A (which will increase the pitcher's ERA) is far less important than giving up a run or two in exampe B. Both have the same effect on an ERA, but one scenario has a much greater impact on the game.