MLB announced three monumental rule changes for the 2023 season. They are designed to make the game faster and more entertaining. Here is what you need to know and how they could change the game.
In 2023 fans will see the introduction of defensive shift restrictions, pitch timer, and larger bases. This effort to move closer to the best version of the game is admirable. Also, it is nice to see MLB try to restore some of the traditional parts of the game that features more action, more contact, and a faster pace.
Rule Changes
One rule will be the pitch timer which will require pitchers to begin their motion prior to the expiration of the clock. It will be fifteen seconds with bases empty and twenty seconds with at least one runner on. The hitters will be required to be in the batter’s box and alert the pitcher before the timer goes out.
Though hitters will be allowed one time out during at bat. This will help with the pace of the game because there are pitchers who take too long to throw pitches. In contrast, the batters are constantly leaving the box during the at-bats. Therefore everyone will have to stay engaged in the game.
Another rule change is that there will be larger bases next year. It will increase from a fifteen-inch square to an eighteen-inch square. This rule will help with the safety of the game, like when it rains, and the base gets slippery. Also, it will be more room for the defender or hitter to move their feet.
More Rule Changes
The shift restriction rule is finally going into effect. Though it was supposed to be enforced this year but got pushed back due to the lockout. How it works is that two infielders must be positioned on either side of the second base when the pitch is released. All four infielders must have both feet within the infield when the pitcher is on the rubber. Teams can’t have more than defenders on each side like they sometimes do now. This will be the most significant change and may take away some of the statistics in the game. Teams will have to get used to playing the traditional style of defense again.
There are many players that seem to be all for it because they can try to make those fun and crazy plays that fans like to see. Also, the shift restrictions may create more offensive opportunities. There are only some many times a batter can hit the ball in one spot, so having more openings will be good.
It will be interesting to see how all three rules play out next year. MLB is trying to showcase everything about the game we love. Right now, MLB has some of the biggest, fastest, and most athletic players in history. The new rules are a way of capitalizing on all that. Stay tuned for more MLB rule changes and more.
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