Given the three true outcomes approach of today's hitters, I'm not totally sold on the defensive athleticism becoming the premium it once was, but I do think there will be a slight resurgence in it. Particularly in the infield. And I like that a lot. I'm just not convinced that it's going to be all that noticeable generally speaking.
That said, the FO clearly thinks that it will be a bigger difference based on their acquisitions this offseason. I'll be happy to be wrong if that logic pays off and a good defensive team makes a significant difference. And I'd rather have a good defensive club than a bad one any day anyway.