The Los Angeles Dodgers fell to the Milwaukee Brewers in their 2023 Spring Training opener, but a positive takeaway was that they largely avoided violating MLB’s new rule changes.
That wasn’t the case in their second Cactus League game against the Chicago Cubs. Shelby Miller and Chris Taylor both failed to adhere to the pitch timer, with the latter not being ready in the batter’s box by the required eight-second mark.
“That was my first before I even got in the box. Yeah, it’s definitely, it’s quick,” Taylor said of the experience. “I think you definitely have to kind of anticipate when you’re on deck, you got to be ready to get in the box immediately.
“I got caught watching the game. And then before I knew it, I was out of time. I think I actually got in the box in time, but I guess my head was down. They’re definitely on it, so you got to be ready.”
Taylor was surprised by the pitch clock violation but acknowledged umpires will be stern with enforcing the new rule. “I thought I was in there,” Taylor reiterated. “But yeah, I mean, I’m sure they’re going to be strict on it right now to get everybody used to it.”
As players adjust to the new pitch timer, perhaps the most consequential outcome of the rule took place in a matchup between the Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves.
With two outs, a full count and the bases loaded, the Braves’ Cal Conley thought he drew a game-winning walk. However, umpire John Libka called an automatic strike three that ended the inning after Conley failed to get back in the batter’s box within the required time.
New rule changes Dodgers & other MLB teams must adhere to
In addition to the pitch clock, other new rule changes coming to MLB this season include shift restrictions and the use of larger bases.
Furthermore, the automatic runner on second base in extra bases rule was permanently adopted, and teams will be limited how often they can use a position player as a pitcher.
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