We’re into the 2022 playoffs. Recently, MLB has announced rule changes that will go into effect for the 2023 season.
I’ve made a few suggestion posts that they failed to read.
Thinking Time Limits for Baseball
The changes for 2023 are a pitch clock, a limit to pitchers trying pickoffs, a limit to batters stepping out of the box, increased base sizes, and restrictions on locating infielders.
The pitch clock will be 15 seconds when there are no runners on base; otherwise 20 seconds. The clock starts when the pitcher receives the ball from a fielder or umpire. When the clock expires, the batter will be awarded a ball.
These time limits will reduce the resting time for a pitcher. Without resting time, a pitcher’s velocity will be decreased. Thus, more emphasis will be placed on pitch location and variation and less on pitch speed. Pitcher’s careers and health will last longer, which will be a good thing for the game.
With a runner on base and twice during a batter’s plate appearance, a pitcher may step off the rubber or throw to a base other than home. On the third occurrence, a balk will be charged if an out is not recorded.
Initially, I thought the two throw-over limits would give base runners an advantage. However, a pitcher who can develop a move that entices runners to attempt a steal after a second throw over will be rewarded for the skill.
A batter may only ask for one time out during a plate appearance. Because the pitcher has a time limit, a batter won’t feel uneasy in the box. However, equipment manufacturers may need to develop gloves with better velcro to eliminate them being adjusted between pitches.
Currently, bases are 15″ x 15″ and will be increased to 18″ x 18″. In my youth, I played first base for ten years. Also, I played many years of softball first base. No runners stepped on my foot.
The more extensive bases will be safer and 4 1/2″ closer. In a game of inches, this will help offensive action.
The last change is restricting defensive positioning. As in the past, at the time of the pitch, the pitcher must be in contact with the rubber, and the catcher must be in his designated box.
Now, the other four infielders must have at least one foot on the dirt, and there must be at least two infielders to either side of second base. This rule does not restrict a player right behind the pitcher. So, hitting back up the middle will still be limited.
Though it’s better than putting four small boxes on the infield, it limits the benefits of thoughtful strategy from the game.
I’ll still enjoy the game. I may yell at my TV, which is better than yelling at the kids to “get off my lawn.”