Baseball Is Broken (on the field, proposed rule changes, attendance, etc.)

[amlothi]

MLB will test its automated ball-strike (ABS) system using T-Mobile’s 5G Private Mobile Network during select MiLB games this season. Real-time ABS data and video will be transmitted securely to help prevent signal interference via devices and the ABS application, all powered by T-Mobile 5G. This will help ensure ultra-reliable, low latency communications as players and officials review, challenge and analyze calls. As T-Mobile expands its sponsorship to MiLB, fans can also expect to see magenta in MiLB stadiums across the country this summer.

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/un-carrier/mlb-renewal-2023

 

[joe dokes]

MLB to test three more rule changes, including installing a designated pinch runner - The Boston Globe

In the Atlantic League:

The designated pinch runner rule allows a player who is not in the starting lineup to be used at any point of the game as a substitute baserunner. The player who was subbed out, as well as the pinch runner, would still be able to return to the game.

The “double-hook” designated hitter rule allows teams to use the DH throughout the game as long as the starting pitcher throws at least five innings. If that doesn’t occur, the team loses its DH and the pitcher’s spot would bat for the remainder of the game. The rule was also used in the Atlantic League last season.

There’s also a single-disengagement rule, which means pitchers can only take their foot off the rubber once per at-bat to attempt a pickoff or reset the pitch clock.

With no thought involved, I kind of like the second one (DH), I'm not sure on the pinch runner, but solidly no on the pickoff.

 

[InstaFace]

The pickoff rule exists already, except that it's two disengagements rather than one, right?

 

[joe dokes]

The pickoff rule exists already, except that it's two disengagements rather than one, right?

Yes. While I never really thought pickoff throws were slowing the pace of play all that much anyway, dropping it from 2 to 1 seems a bit unfair to the defense, and doesn't do much for pace. If it's just simply to have more SBs, then I suppose it makes more logical sense, but I still think it handcuffs the defense too much.

 

[8slim]

What problem is the designated pinch runner thing solving?

 

[joe dokes]

What problem is the designated pinch runner thing solving?

None, as far as I can tell. Just a gimmick to add some speed/action.

 

[8slim]

None, as far as I can tell. Just a gimmick to add some speed/action.

Got it. I've been on board with all of the recent rules changes. This one seems unnecessary.

 

[LogansDad]

Got it. I've been on board with all of the recent rules changes. This one seems unnecessary.

It's one of those rules that I can admit sounds really dumb, but I love steals and plays on the basepaths so I am also pretty sure I would love it. If that makes sense.

 

[8slim]

It's one of those rules that I can admit sounds really dumb, but I love steals and plays on the basepaths so I am also pretty sure I would love it. If that makes sense.

I'm with you on steals. But there's plenty of speedy and/or savvy players in the starting 9. This feels like a gimmick.