Are OBP-loving sabermetricians causing hitters to be over-patient?

I know we've hammered this Brandon Phillips thing out. However, I came across this article that may give his point some credence.

Here are the highlights:

1. BABIP on the first pitch hits have risen significantly since 1992.
2. Since 1992 or so, First pitch BABIP has been consistently 15-20 pts higher than league average BABIP.
3. Since the mid-90s there has been a very obvious increase in First pitches thrown for a strike.
4. Despite these facts, since 1999-2000 there has been a significant decline in hitters swinging at first pitches.

What gives? It sounds like guys trying to get paid via OBP because you get crucified for swinging at the first pitch, despite data suggesting it may be the best pitch to hit at times.

LINK