Major League Baseball introduced new rules to try and speed up the pace of play and make the game more enjoyable for fans.
The new rules impact almost every facet of the game — pitching, hitting, baserunning and fielding.
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Major League Baseball rule changesPitch clock, banning the shift and bigger bases
Watch:MLB running commercials for new rules featuring All-Stars and celebrities
There will be a pitch clock in MLB for the first time, forcing pitchers to throw the ball within 20 seconds with runners on base or 15 seconds with the bases empty. Batters must be in the box “alert to the pitcher” with at least eight seconds remaining.
The bases will be increased by three inches, an effort to induce players to think about stealing bases again, even limiting the number of pick-off attempts by pitchers, instead of resembling a slow-pitch softball game.
There is also a new rule limiting the number of pickoff attempts a pitcher can make or the times he steps off the rubber. Pitchers can step off the rubber to reset twice during a plate appearance. They are allowed to step off or attempt a pickoff throw a third time, but will be charged a balk if no out is recorded.
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What do you think of the new rules? Are they making the game more exciting and efficient, or are they damaging the tradition of the National Pastime. Let your voice be heard.
