Is the Game Changing?

As more and more ballclubs realize if they have not already that pitching and defense wins championships, and puts their focus on this instead of offense, it will be interesting to watch how the game might change in time.  In a way it already has.  Offensive numbers are down a bit, yet the game remains as exciting as ever. 

Offense is fun, but pitching and defense wins.  In truth, you need both, but the offense-heavy era might be coming to a close.  Rare commodities such as genuine leadoff hitters, good bunters, and base stealers might become just as valuable if not more so than a top-notch slugger.  If so much value is placed on pitching, then should it not also be placed on offensive speed, which barring injury, does not slump?  If you can just push a run or two across while keeping your defense and pitching airtight, you will be pretty tough to beat.  That formula worked pretty well for the White Sox last year. 

Changes in the game will not automatically eliminate problems with drug use in baseball, but a shift in values might alter the way offenses are put together and how much value is placed on sheer power.  Power alone will not win.  Balance wins.