Major League Baseball introduced three new rules for the 2023 season that dramatically changed the landscape of the sport. Among them are a pitch clock, limits on defensive shifts and the use of larger bases.
The rules were implemented to create a faster pace of play, increase action on the field and improve player safety. While there was a learning curve for many players, the changes have ultimately accomplished what they were intended to.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has individually met with teams this season to discuss the new rules, and on Tuesday visited the Los Angeles Dodgers prior to their matchup against the Baltimore Orioles.
Manager Dave Roberts praised Manfred for taking the time to provide transparency to clubs and answer questions from players, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred was in Baltimore on Tuesday and met with the Dodgers’ players, coaches and staff before the game. Manfred fielded questions about the new rules in place this season, including the pitch clock, larger bases and other changes meant to increase action and improve the pace of play.
“I think he said he’s been with 17 teams. It’s great to get in front of players, coaches and field questions that players might have,” Roberts said. “A lot of the questions were specific to the pitch clock, a potential ABS (automated balls and strikes) strike zone, kind of things like that.”
As teams get used to the new rules that were introduced this season, another big change may be on the horizon. An automatic ball-strike system (ABS) has been tested in select Triple-A games and could come to MLB as soon as 2024.
The three rules that went into effect this year were tested in the Minors for several seasons before coming to MLB.
As for speaking with the Dodgers, Manfred has met with several teams this season. It’s part of an initiative he expressed wanting to carry forward after a new collective bargaining agreement ended the MLB lockout.
MLB testing double-hook & more rules during 2023 Atlantic League season
MLB is testing the use of a designated pinch-runner and allowing pitchers only one disengagement per plate appearance throughout the 2023 Atlantic League Championship Season (ALPB).
The Atlantic League became MLB’s first partner league in 2019, and in the years since, has tested numerous rules such as an automated strike zone, three-batter minimum for pitchers, bigger bases and defensive shift restrictions, among others.
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