Amidst Heavy Criticism, MLB’s Latest Rule Changes Help Set a Staggering Record

From the many rule changes enforced into the 2023 season, the pitch clock has created the most amount of chaos. While pitchers, batters, and even the fans struggle to adjust to the pitch clock and its rather harsh violations, seemingly, this new rule has already started to benefit the game. But at what cost?

Debates pertaining to the pitch clock range from the unnecessary commercialization of a traditional game to its necessity, due to baseball’s decreasing popularity in the American major league circuit. But the pitch clock is serving its purpose. The pitch clock has already done a stunning job of bringing down the duration of the game while simultaneously bringing in more eyes toward the game.

Are the new rules benefitting the sport?

In a world that’s entirely governed by an attention economy, the longer baseball games could never compete with the fast-paced NFL and NBA. As a result, the pitch clock was enforced, and as reported by Sports Pro’s Joe Pompliano, the pitch clock is already doing its job.

The average duration of the game has already been reduced by 30 minutes since Opening Day. From 3:09, the average time has come down to 2:38. Moreover, the pitch clock aims at adding pressure on the pitcher, hence increasing the chances of a poor pitch, resulting in an increased batting average which could result in higher scoring and more entertaining games.

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Additionally, with the onset of new rules, the average viewership has already shot to an all-time high. “MLB TV generated 172 million watched minutes on opening day, shattering their previous record by 42%,” as reported by Pompliano.

What did MLB commissioner Rob Manfred say about the pitch clock prior to Opening Day?

While talking about the pitch clock prior to Opening Day, after watching its first implementation in Spring training, Rob Manfred explained the challenges of the clock, but also that it’s a necessity in the present day and age.

He said, “We think the changes are going to produce a crisp, more exciting game. More balls in play, and I think the athleticism of our great athletes will shine through. It’s not about changing the game; it’s about making sure we put the best form of baseball on the field.”

What do you think about the new rules in the ongoing MLB season? Was it needed in the sport? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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