Just wanted to note that I edited my post above regarding GB%. The GB% didn't seem to matter at all (at least I couldn't see any effect) after running many more tests. I should know better than to post results from so few tests.
Nevertheless, the two defensive changes did make a big difference and I'm hoping that a few such adjustments on each team (if necessary) will improve the replay. I'm going to see how much improvement can be made in the '74 replay without touching hitting and pitching ratings, but will hopefully resist posting results before sufficient testing has been done.
