A Few Stranded Man On Base

A Few Stranded Man On Base

By Luke Veinot

August 18, 2007

How many times do you think a stat like RISP is talked about daily? It comes up during each broadcasted game, contract negotiation, and MVP debate.  It’s a number that doesn’t carry much weight over a career but year to year and month to month fans, writers and broadcasters will use this number to deconstruct a struggling ball club.  Point blank, if you’re not batting well with runners in scoring position you’re not going to win many games.  At the end of any none specific inning you’ll find runners left on base.  We all know this as a disappointment but what of those guys who work the counts, get those bleeders through the infield or a ball lined deep in the gap?  What about the credit we give to those who steal a base on a two out count only to be left at second. Hits and bases are awarded even if you don’t score.  Regardless of the outcome, many players rack up great numbers on losing clubs.  So what of these men left behind?  Are they the scrappy folks getting their first cup in the bigs or all stars?

With stats taken from games up to August 17, here’s a “mafia style” roster of the league leaders in hits without scoring (HWS).