The PitchCom System, which was first introduced in MLB games in 2022, has quickly become a game-changer in the sport. By 2023, it worked hand-in-hand with the Pitch Clock to create a smoother, faster game experience. Not only did it keep things moving at a better clip, but it also helped bring more excitement, energy, and visual appeal to the sport, which has definitely made it more accessible to younger fans and families. 

In fact, the 2023 season saw the average game length drop to its shortest in 38 years—since 1985—coming in at just 2 hours, 39 minutes per game. That’s a solid 24-minute reduction from 2022 and a whopping 30 minutes shorter than 2021. And get this—there were only nine games that ran over the 3:30 mark last season. Compare that to 2021, where there were a staggering 390 games that stretched past that point. 

Roger Clemens sheds light on what went behind before PitchCom was introduced   

However, some players think that we may be too dependent on the system. Players like Roger Clemens. The American former professional baseball pitcher made a bold claim in an interview with The Baseballer. Clemens said, “I was PitchCom before PitchCom,” calling 90-95% of his games. The nickname “Rocket” was given to Clemens because he was one of the greatest power pitchers in history. 

His seven Cy Young Award victories made him the first pitcher to do it. In the interview, Clemens also said that he called 90-95% of his games with just his looks. When the batter is redoing his batting gloves, or looking off, or getting a sign, the ‘Rocket’ would do some stuff with his eyes. While Clemens’ baseball career might be over, his son Kody Clemens is also an MLB player for the Philadelphia Phillies. 

Kody Clemens has baseball in his blood 

Kody Clemens is the youngest son of legendary pitcher Roger Clemens, one of the most dominant arms the game has ever seen. Born in 1996, Kody grew up around the game, soaking in the knowledge and skill from his Cy Young-winning dad. He took a big step towards following in his father’s footsteps when he was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft, putting him on a path to make a name for himself.

The Philadelphia Phillies made a bold move in 2023, acquiring hard-throwing lefty reliever Gregory Soto and infielder Kody Clemens from the Detroit Tigers. It’s a trade that adds some solid depth to the Phillies’ roster, with Soto bringing a strong arm to their bullpen and Clemens potentially adding some versatility in the field. In return, the Tigers got infielder Nick Maton, outfielder Matt Vierling, and catcher Donny Sands. 

The Phillies are at a bit of a crossroads when it comes to Kody Clemens. With the 2025 season on the horizon, the team’s loyal fan base is left wondering whether Clemens will make the cut and secure a spot on the roster—or if he could be included in a trade that shakes things up. Could Kody Clemens be a hidden gem for the team in 2025, or will the Phillies trade him to fill another need? What do you think? Share with us below.