MLB is like the evil scientist trying to create new experiments without really considering the consequences, and without a clear purpose.
Home run numbers are significantly down compared to previous seasons, and other run-scoring numbers have also decreased: slugging percentage, runs scored, and more.
In other words, it’s clear that something is going on.
The weather?
Not so much: temperatures have remained very similar to those of 2021, a relatively normal year in the power categories.
Every sign is pointing at something happening to the ball.
And who provides the balls and makes sure they are in top condition to be used around the league?
Yes, MLB, obviously.
Is the league manipulating the balls once again?
It sure seems like it.
They did it in 2019, and it was more “bouncy” that year, leading to record offensive numbers.
It was more “normal” in 2020 and 2021.
Hitting Rolled Up Socks
2022?
It has been the other side of the spectrum.
According to a current major league star, it’s like hitting “rolled up socks”.
It's not cold weather. Hitting numbers are down and the players know why. pic.twitter.com/kVTS0pkqRs
— WAKE and RAKE Podcast (@WAKEandRAKEpod) April 26, 2022
If you have never hit rolled up socks, well, they don’t travel very far.
MLB hitters must be frustrated: they feel like they have putting on their best swings and hitting the ball hard, only to see it result on a meaningless fly ball.
What exactly is the league trying to achieve?
Do they want faster games in which outs occur quickly and easily?
Is pace of play and average time of play so important to them that they are willing to nullify their best hitters’ offensive ceiling in the process?
We will find more answers shortly, but right now, it’s not looking good for most MLB hitters.
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