With MLB now fully operating the minor leagues, with MLB having a strong interest in improving the entertainment value of its product (i.e., more action on the field), and with Theo Epstein now consulting with MLB on these issues … it didn’t take long for rules changes to come.
For now, MLB is terming these “experimental rules” changes in the minor leagues, but you can see the writing on the wall. This is a test for implementation in MLB eventually. And it’s all the big ones: killing the shift, pitch clock, electronic strike zone, pick-off limitations, and larger bases. The changes will be implemented at different levels – with adjustments possible throughout the season – and all are designed to increase and improve the actual action on the field.
I am very on board with at least trying these things out in the minors, and seeing what you can learn:
As Epstein put it in the release:
Theo:"The game on the field is constantly evolving, MLB must be thoughtful and intentional about progressing toward the very best version of baseball – a version that is true to its essence and has enough consistent action and athleticism on display to entertain fans of all ages"
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 11, 2021
More Theo: “These rules experiments will provide valuable insight into various ways to create a playing environment that encourages the most entertaining version of the game…"
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 11, 2021
To my quick look, every single one of the new experimental minor league rules is good. Buuuuut just in case they aren’t, it’s smart that they’re being tried out in a game environment in the minors to see how it actually plays out. Baseball is doing a progressive, smart thing! Huzzah!
A variety of experimental playing rules, which have been approved by the Competition Committee and the Playing Rules Committee, will be tested at various levels of the Minor Leagues during the upcoming 2021 season. pic.twitter.com/1aQMbgWHqp
— MLB Communications (@MLB_PR) March 11, 2021