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Great read, Doc.
It was particularly gratifying to me to see MLB Net and ESPN both mention that Seattle had set a FRANCHISE record of 8 consecutive games allowing 3 or fewer runs. Even if this post jinxes them and the streak ends today, (and the streak will end at some point), it's nice to hear someone other than myself applauding the job this team is doing on the run-suppression side of the equation.
That shift (compared to last season), has got to be almost 100% attributed to Captain Jack.
I think earlier in the season, there was "pressure" that the offense NEEDED the defense to keep opponents under 3. I feel a different dynamic today. I feel like there is an EXPECTATION that the defense is likely to hold the opponent under 3, so the offense is loosening up and starting to perform to ability.
I feel a shift that says, when the next pitcher does struggle, the offense is going to be in a position of WANTING to bail them out, (because they've earned it). But, instead of pressing and folding, I think we might well see an offensive explosion.