Less is often more for a struggling offence

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The Toronto Blue Jays are 16-11 even though they are just eighth in runs scored in the American League and have been outscored by their opponents by eight runs. The key to their success has been a strong record (10-4) in one-run games.

Toronto’s offence is not producing at the level that most people expected. The Jays are 20th in runs per game this season after ranking third in all of baseball last year.

The biggest difference so far this season is the team’s inability to deliver with runners in scoring position. In 2021, the Jays hit .270/.342/.469 with runners in scoring position. This season they are hitting a measly .168/.241/.292. They are ranked dead last. It’s true that offence is down across the board, but that is not an explanation for the Jays’ struggles. They still have a much better offensive lineup than just about every other club.

If I was running the Jays, I would have meetings with manager Charlie Montoyo and the entire coaching staff to discuss the struggles. I would want their perspective on what the issues might be. Then we would put together a strategy to speak to the players.

When an entire lineup is scuffling, it is almost always about the hitters trying too hard. When hitters feel like they have to get a hit or else, it compounds the problem. Making the struggle a big deal in meetings and around the batting cage can make it feel even bigger. The more players feel the pressures of the coaches, the more uptight they can get. When hitters don’t hit, it isn’t because they are not trying. Trying harder makes things worse.

Hitting slumps are often contagious, just like hot streaks can be. The energy a hitter gives off after an at-bat can affect the rest of the lineup. Anger