I guess you have to look at the overall picture: how successful has using the shift been for Francona? Yeah, early on Plameiro did hit one through the big gap, but hasn't it worked more than not? I completely agree with YanksHater, it's up to the pitcher to throw something that will be pulled. Regarding the Palmeiro hit, I think it was Timlin who threw a bad pitch, allowing a crafty veteran like Raffy to find the hole.