Why MLB teams are shifting on defense more than ever

Few MLB teams use defensive shifts as often as Houston, which has benefited from its implementation.

Elaine Thompson/AP

Left-handed pull hitters like David Ortiz are losing hits to defensive shifts on the right side of the infield.

Winslow Townson/AP

So if you crave more action, don't place too much of the blame on the proliferation of the shifts. Sure, they are designed to take away hits, but the modern run-starved environment is less about what happens when the ball is put into play and more about how often it is not.