I'd prefer a 2 run lead with a man on first (having been walked, let's say) than a 1 run lead and nobody on base (all assuming no outs).
Well.... You're assuming Bryce was automatic to hit a homer if he was pitched to. Walking him is 100% to get one of the two runs needed on base. Pitching to him is 30-40% at best.
9th inning, there'd be no argument for walking him. 8th or 7th, then it could go either way.