Originally Posted by
Falls City Beer
Pitching was the main thing, but then, over 162 games, you've got to have more than pitching to wrap up a division championship or even a second wild card. San Fran's offenses were largely forgettable, but maybe there's more to the game of offense than patience and walks. I think the Giants in those championship years were built well (great pitching + zero black holes in their lineup, unlike say, Cozart, Robinson, Hanigan, Mesaraco, etc). Competence offensively at every position (Giants), instead of two superstars, two competents, and four bums (Reds) is the better offense. Most teams can suffer one black hole in their offense, but three or four night after night is just too much for any true performers to make up for.