MLB, with the green light of the Players Association, will implement a pitch clock starting in 2023, among other changes like enlarged bases and a shift ban.
Some fans aren’t opposed to decreasing time between pitches, while others don’t have a problem with the current pace of play.
The league clearly does, however, so it wants to implement a 14-second clock when nobody is on the bases and a 19-second clock with runners on.
MLB pitchers, who take on average 25 seconds between pitches, are not fans of the idea of limiting the time between pitches.
One particular hurler, reliever Blake Treinen, is strongly opposed to the idea.
“Blake Treinen also made it clear that he’s vehemently against the pitch clock, ‘I don’t think we need it,'” was Bob Nightengale’s tweet on Tuesday.
Blake Treinen also made it clear that he’s vehemently against the pitch clock, ‘I don’t think we need it.’
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 8, 2022
Relievers Will Likely Be The Most Affected By The Pitch Clock Rule
Some starters like to work quickly, and don’t take too much time between pitches.
Others, however, don’t like to feel the pressure to deliver a pitch in time, or they risk having a ball added to the hitter’s count.
The ones who will suffer the most, though, are relievers.
Bullpen pitchers often take a bit more time than starters, for obvious reasons: the game is on the line, there are runners on base, and they need to breathe, relax, and get some focus.
That often takes time, and MLB wants pitchers to get into a rhythm and throw faster.
It’s already in the cards, though, so it’s not something players can protest because the MLB Players Association already approved it.
Lots of pitchers will need to have an adjustment period, that’s for sure.
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