MLB's Pitch Timer and Rule Changes Revolutionize the Game
The adoption of new rules in the 2023 baseball season, including the pitch timer, defensive shift restrictions, and bigger bases, has resulted in shorter game times, with the average nine-inning game time decreasing by 24 minutes compared to the previous year. However, game times did slightly lengthen in the second half of the season as players adapted to the timer rules. Pitch timer violations declined throughout the year, with players adjusting and the rate of violations decreasing. The defense commits the most violations, while there is no evidence that the timer caused more injuries or changed starting pitcher usage. Basestealing has increased, with stolen-base attempts at the highest rate since 2012 and the highest success rate in MLB history. The goal of having infielders in their natural positions has resulted in more traditional results on balls in play, with an increase in the leaguewide batting average on balls in play. Defensive shift infractions have been exceedingly rare.