Trevor Bauer, one of the most controversial figures in the MLB universe in the last few years, decided to speak up against the shift ban.
MLB will ban the shift, install a pitch clock, and enlarge the bases starting in 2023.
It’s clear that the shift has its defenders and detractors: most pitchers like it, and pull-heavy hitters hate it: it’s natural.
But Bauer, always mercurial and controversial in his takes, had this to say: “If we’re banning the shift let’s just ban breaking balls and all off speed pitches too while we’re at it,” with an obvious sarcastic tone.
If we’re banning the shift let’s just ban breaking balls and all off speed pitches too while we’re at it.
— Trevor Bauer (トレバー・バウアー) (@BauerOutage) March 7, 2022
The shift was a way of pitchers and fielders to gain some competitive advantage exploiting hitters’ weaknesses.
It will be allowed this season, but starting in 2023, it will be eliminated.
The League Has Been Experimenting With Rule Changes
The league has been experimenting with changes in the last few seasons: last year, for example, they banned the use of foreign substances by pitchers on the ball, which was a widespread practice for a long time.
They have toyed with robot umpires, too.
But the shift ban will be enforced after the season, and there is no turning back.
Bauer, who signed a three-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in February 2021, spent most of last season on administrative leave as the league investigated sexual assault allegations made against him.
In February, the Los Angeles County District Attorney announced that they would not be filing any criminal charges against Bauer related to these incidents citing a lack of evidence.
However, Bauer may not play the 2022 season at all, because he is still subject to a league-imposed suspension for his implications in the case.
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