I agree against Verlander the team did nothing to break his rhythm, up his pitch count and increase their own chance to put the ball in play against a suspect Detroit defense. However, the team had a great fantastic run this year but their approach at the plate was one dimensional. It seemed everyone, except for Coco, swung for the fences all the time. As a stark contrast look at Miguel Cabrerra’s approach at the plate (or pick any other great hitter: Jeter, Carew, etc…) Never saw any good inside-out swings to protect the plate, foul balls off and up the pitch count of opposing pitchers. Not enough going to the opposite field/going with the pitch. Great example is Jemile Weeks. At 5’9″ and a buck 60 that guy swung just as hard as Josh Reddick or Yoenis Cespedes. Effen unbelievable and a disgrace. Hope someone sends him in the off season to the Rod Carew/Tony Gwynn/Ichiro Suzuki school of hitting b/c that is exactly how someone with his speed, size and (lack of) power should be swinging the bat/hitting. Hell, most of the A’s should go (especially our catchers – DAMN!) and develop that swing to compliment the power stroke they all have. If that were to happen, this team would wear out any and every opposing pitcher/pitching staff, score in several innings per game and have 100 to 110+ wins.