I really just think it's different for each guy. Some like letting a pitch go by so they can get used to the pitcher, etc. Some, like Paul Molitor, will happily swing at the first pitch if it's a good one to hit, yet still be able to work counts, get walks, have a good eye, what have you. Both styles can work, but it's up to the player to make them work. If a guy wants to look at a first strike, he can't then start swinging at crap. If a guy wants to swing at the first pitch, he still has to be selective and be willing to work counts and take walks if he never gets a good pitch to hit.