MLBPA Chief Reveals Likely 2023 Changes In MLB

For months, we have all believed that the pitch clock, the shift ban, and the enlarged bases were going to be implemented by MLB starting in the 2023 campaign.

However, recent remarks by MLB Player Association (MLBPA) leader Tony Clark may indicate that their application is not yet set in stone, or at least details involving their implementation are yet to be finalized.

That’s what The Athletic’s Evan Drellich reported on Tuesday.

“Tony Clark on potential rule changes being discussed on competition committee, which includes players: ‘Pitch clock, bases and shift are the focal point for the consideration for 2023… Remains to be seen what comes out of that discussion.’ Clark thinks next 40 days will be key,” he tweeted.

Tony Clark on potential rule changes being discussed on competition committee, which includes players: "Pitch clock, bases and shift are the focal point for the consideration for 2023… Remains to be seen what comes out of that discussion." Clark thinks next 40 days will be key.

— Evan Drellich (@EvanDrellich) July 19, 2022

MLB’s Three Preferred Rule Changes

The idea is for MLB to use larger bases, mainly to avoid accidents in the basepaths in which a fielder and a runner are involved.

MLB hopes to avoid injuries if the bases are bigger.

Regarding the shift, the league mainly wants it to go away starting from next season.

This will benefit pull-heavy hitters and affect forward-thinking organizations that took advantage of specific infield (and also outfield) positioning to increase the chances of getting outs.

The most controversial rule change in store will be the implementation of the pitch clock.

Pitchers have repeatedly said they are against it, and see it as an unnecessary measure that could affect their performance.

The league, however, wants to reduce playing time and accelerate pace of play, and since they have gotten positive reports out of their use in the minor leagues, they seem determined to implement it in the bigs.

In any case, an official decision should come soon, per Clark.