In the midst of the bargaining sessions during the MLB lockout, there have been some discussions regarding other things.
While the two sides try to hash out a new CBA, there has been some talk of some major rule changes being implemented in Major League Baseball going forward.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today noted that several possible rule changes are on the table.
These changes include banning shifts, implementing a pitch clock, and the use of oversized bases.
MLB wants these rules to go into effect in 2023, but they cannot be implemented before the 2024 season unless the Players Association agrees to it.
The three rule changes that MLB wants to implement: Banning shifts, a pitch clock, and oversized bases can not begin before the 2024 season unless the union agrees. MLB wants the rules to go into effect in 2023.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 3, 2022
Big Changes
These would be some big changes if they are put into effect, but they are changes that are necessary for the betterment of the game, especially that of the shift.
The game has gotten progressively slower as time goes on, with the average length of a game sitting at just over three hours.
A pitch clock may help speed things a long a little bit.
The shift is probably the greater concern as of now.
Many players, including Matt Carpenter and Joey Gallo, have been major advocates for banning the exaggerated shift, and it’s understandable as to why.
Fans want to see action, and when there are multiple players in one spot on the field, it makes it harder for hitters to find holes, even the best ones.
It slows the game down too.
Less action means the games will take longer, and one of the major reasons baseball is miles behind sports such as football, soccer, hockey, and basketball, is because of the length of games.
We’ll have to wait and see if any of these changes are implemented in the future.
NEXT: Fernando Tatis Jr. Showers Praise On Mike Trout