Part 6/11:
Defense, Gut Instincts, and the Human Element
Dad Kirkshen emphasized how crucial defense and gut instincts are in baseball. He highlighted moments like Kik Hernandez’s bold decision to move in seven feet to catch a crucial ball, driven by his instincts rather than sheer statistics. Similarly, infielders like Ernie Clement and Miguel Rojas demonstrated that seasoned, instinctive play can be the difference in tight situations.
The series' dramatic ending calls attention to the value of minimizing mistakes—both in pitching and defense. The Dodgers, despite some errors, managed to capitalize on their opportunities and execute under pressure. The series underlined that winning in October often hinges on a team's ability to avoid costly errors and make the most of critical plays.