Search results
Feb 6, 2023 · Learn how the new rules aim to improve pace of play and action on the field. Find out the details, purposes, impacts and FAQs of the pitch timer, shift restrictions and bigger bases.
- Anthony Castrovince
Mar 27, 2024 · March 27th, 2024. Anthony Castrovince. @ castrovince. With the pitch timer, defensive shift restrictions and bigger bases, the 2023 MLB season featured arguably the most ambitious series of rules changes since the dawn of the game’s Modern Era. This year’s changes? Much more subtle.
- Anthony Castrovince
Dec 21, 2023 · MLB announced several tweaks for 2024, focusing on further improving the pace of play. The changes include shortening the pitch clock with runners on base, reducing the number of mound visits, and widening the runner's lane towards first base.
- Jesse Yomtov
- MLB Editor
Feb 1, 2023 · MLB announced three rule changes for the 2023 season to improve pace of play, action and safety. The changes include a 30-second timer between batters, limits on defensive shifts and 18-inch bases.
- Anthony Castrovince
- Pitch Clock
- Limits on Pitcher Disengagements
- Infield Shift Limits
- Bigger Bases
The pitch clockaims to speed the pace of play by eliminating down time between pitches. Players will have 30 seconds to resume play between batters. Between pitches, pitchers have 15 seconds with nobody on and 20 seconds if there is a baserunner. The pitcher must start his delivery before the clock expires. After a pitch, the clock starts again whe...
Pitchers may only disengage from the pitching rubber — either to call timeout or to attempt a pickoff throw — twice per plate appearance. After a pitcher has used his two disengagements, he can still attempt a pickoff, but it better be successful. If the baserunner gets back safely, a balk is assessed and the runner advances. If a runner advances d...
The infield shift — putting three or more infielders on one side of second base, usually with one positioned in the outfield — has been a popular trend over the past decade, and many believe it has contributed to plummeting batting averages. The new rule statesthat all four infielders must have both feet within the outer boundary of the infield and...
New larger baseshave been introduced to improve player safety and to modestly encourage more stolen-base attempts. The bases are now 18-square inches, up from 15-square inches. Home plate is now three inches closer to first and third base, while the corner bases are now 4 1/2 inches closer to second base.
A complete guide to the 2023 rule changes coming to MLB, including a pitch timer, restrictions on infield shifts, bigger bases, and more.
Sep 9, 2022 · The MLB Competition Committee is expected Friday to adopt three rule changes starting in 2023: a pitch timer to improve pace of play, a ban on shifts to restore offense and athleticism, and...
