Originally Published 2 months ago — by Sportico.com
The article argues that MLB should abolish the intentional walk, citing its lack of fairness and entertainment value, especially highlighted during Shohei Ohtani's recent World Series at-bats, where strategic walks overshadowed the game itself.
In Game 1 of the NLCS, the Brewers executed an unusual double play involving a ball that hit the wall after a missed catch, leading to a force out at home and third base, despite the ball not being caught cleanly. The play was legal under baseball rules, which state that a ball hitting the wall after a missed catch is still in play, and the play was confirmed by officials. The Dodgers challenged the play but it stood, and the Brewers escaped a bases-loaded jam, ultimately winning the game.
The All-Star Game was decided by a historic home run swing-off, with Kyle Schwarber hitting three home runs to secure the NL victory over the AL, marking a unique and exciting conclusion to the game.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred revealed that he considered Donald Trump's support when deciding to interpret MLB's ban on Pete Rose as ending with death, allowing Rose to be considered for the Hall of Fame. The article also discusses upcoming technological changes in umpiring, potential Olympic participation, salary cap discussions, broadcasting negotiations, and other league updates.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the controversial 'Golden At Bat' proposal, which would allow teams to substitute a preferred hitter at any point in the lineup once per game. Speaking at an event, Manfred assured fans that the rule is unlikely to be implemented soon, as it was merely a preliminary discussion. While the idea generated significant buzz, Manfred emphasized that it remains a distant possibility and not a current priority for MLB, especially given the success of other recent rule changes.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has dismissed the likelihood of implementing the 'golden at-bat' rule, which would allow teams to send any player to bat at any point in the game, diverging from the traditional batting order. Speaking at the Italian American Baseball Foundation's gala, Manfred reassured fans that this rule is not being considered for adoption in the near future, despite being discussed in a competition committee meeting. Manfred, who has overseen several recent changes in MLB, remains opposed to this particular idea.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has proposed a controversial "Golden At-Bat" rule, allowing coaches to substitute any batter once per game, potentially altering the sport's dynamics. While still in the discussion phase, the rule could be tested in minor leagues or the MLB All-Star Game. Critics argue it undermines baseball's traditional unpredictability and could skew player statistics, favoring star hitters and challenging relief pitchers. The proposal has sparked debate among players and managers, with many expressing concerns about its impact on the game's integrity.
Sports commentator Mike Francesa has expressed strong opposition to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's suggestion of a "Golden At-Bat" rule, which would allow a team to send any batter to the plate once per game regardless of lineup order. Francesa stated on his podcast that he would stop watching baseball if the rule were implemented, criticizing it as a fundamental change to the sport that he cannot take seriously.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's proposal for a "Golden At-Bat" rule, allowing teams to substitute their best hitter for an at-bat once per game, has sparked criticism from players and managers. Critics argue it undermines the traditional structure of baseball, could negatively impact relievers' statistics, and increase injury risks for pitchers. The proposal is still in the discussion phase, but it has already become a contentious topic among baseball figures.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred is considering a new rule called the "Golden At-Bat," allowing teams to send their best hitter to the plate once per game, regardless of the batting order. Critics argue it fundamentally changes baseball's character, with some suggesting it could be limited to extra innings to maintain traditional gameplay. The idea has sparked debate, with many fans opposing it as a gimmick that detracts from the sport's essence.
Major League Baseball (MLB) will test three new rules in the independent Atlantic League, including the use of a designated pinch runner, the "double hook" DH rule, and further limitations on mound visits. The Atlantic League season starts on April 28, and the experiments will be tested during the season. MLB has previously used the Atlantic League as a rules laboratory and typically tests successful rules in the affiliated minor leagues before considering them for use at the big-league level.