With the new CBA being signed by MLB and MLBPA, it looked as if the extra inning runner rule and seven-inning doubleheaders would be going away.
However, it appears that at least one of those unpopular rules may stay in place.
While there is no indication of the seven-inning doubleheaders returning, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports that the runner on second to start extra innings may stay in place.
This rule was initially put in place in 2020 during the COVID-shortened season and it stayed in effect in 2021.
But with the signing of the new CBA, it appeared as if that rule would be going away, and we would be returning to traditional baseball.
Now, there’s talk of it coming back in 2022.
The extra inning 2B ghost runner is trending back toward reality for the 2022 season, sources say. Not quite decided but MLB is listening to managers who want to avoid testing arms after short spring. I consider this great news, as I do believe in ghosts. @jaysonst 1st mentioned
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 18, 2022
Trending Backwards
This is a major step backwards for baseball.
The extra inning runner rule just doesn’t feel like real baseball.
It seems as if Commissioner Rob Manfred wants to change things for the sake of changing things, not because it will improve the game.
The new CBA made it look like we would finally be moving away from the rule.
Now, it looks like it’s coming back.
What is most frustrating about this rule as that it’s used only in the regular season, not the postseason.
Yet it is still hyped up by Manfred, who seems to believe it’s a great rule and a step forward for the game, when the truth is the opposite.
And if it’s so great, fans can’t help but wonder why it isn’t kept around when the postseason begins?
Why hype it up if you’re only going to have it in place for the regular season?
Hopefully, by some chance they decide not to go this route, and baseball can return to normal.
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