The eight hitter dilema in National League baseball

National League baseball is so different than baseball played anywhere else. Why? No DH of course.

This certainly affects how the game is played and also how the game is managed.

The eight hitter in a lineup has so much value because he hits in front of the pitcher. Here is the significance behind this rationale.

1- The eight hitter gets intentionally walked quite a bit. This needs to be considered with respect to a batters speed. It would certainly be a more difficult decision if the opposing team had to intentionally walk a batter that had some wheels. If a runner was on 3rd this actually might dissuade the opposing team from actually walking the hitter.

2-Pitchers bunt. They bunt when no one else would ever consider bunting. This means you would want some speed in front of the pitcher's spot. Speed on the bases always makes advancing the runner an easier proposition.

3- The eight hitter would be the ideal candidate for a double switch. If the pitcher were to be a leadoff hitter in a subsequent inning, a double switch would be made with the eight hitter in the lineup. This suggests that the eight hitter should potentially not be a catcher unless there is a better defensive catcher on the bench. The point here is you do not want to weaken yourself defensively late in the game if you can avoid it.

It appears that a major factor in who hits in the eight spot is the speed that spot can provide. Putting plodding runners in that spot simply puts the offense at a disadvantage.

It would be interesting to see how Nat'l League teams approach this spot.

By my account it appears shortstops and 2B appear to be the best candidates. Outfielders are certainly fast also but usually if you're an outfielder playing in the major leagues you're higher in the order.