Major League Baseball (MLB) has been entertaining America since the late 1800s. Since then, the rules and regulations have changed multiple times to create a better and more enjoyable game. One of the most recent rule changes was to the extra inning rules. This article will discuss when MLB changed extra inning rules as well as the motivations behind the change.
History of Extra Innings
Extra innings is the term used to describe any additional innings played beyond the ninth inning, the traditional ending of a regulation game. It is necessary when the game remains tied after the completion of the ninth inning. Extra innings has been a part of the MLB game since the beginning, with the first game ending in a tie after seven extra innings.
Current Extra Innings Rules
The current extra innings rules have been in place since 2020. In the tenth inning, each team starts the inning with a runner placed on second base. This runner is the player who made the last out in the previous inning. This rule was implemented to help speed up the game and reduce the amount of extra innings played.
Reasons for Change
The main reason for changing the extra innings rules was to speed up games and reduce the amount of extra innings played. Long games can be exhausting for players and fans alike, and MLB wanted to ensure that games would end in a timely manner. Additionally, MLB wanted to reduce the number of injuries that occur due to players playing too many innings.
The Debate
The change in extra innings rules was met with a variety of reactions from players and fans alike. While some people welcomed the change, others were more hesitant and argued that it was a step in the wrong direction. Many argued that changing the extra innings rules would lead to a decrease in the quality of the game and make it less competitive.
The Vote
The rule change was put to a vote in 2019. The vote was narrowly passed, with 26 of the 30 teams voting in favor of the change. This was seen as a major victory for MLB, as the rule change had been debated for several years before finally being approved.
Implementation of the Rule Change
The rule change was implemented at the start of the 2020 season. The change was met with mixed reactions from players and fans alike, but most accepted the change as an inevitable part of the game.
The Impact of the Rule Change
Since the implementation of the rule change, the number of extra innings being played has decreased significantly. The rule change has also resulted in a decrease in the number of injuries being sustained by players, as they are no longer playing as many extra innings.
Reaction from Players
The reaction from players has been mixed. Some players have welcomed the change, as it has made the game more enjoyable and less physically demanding. Other players have been less enthusiastic, arguing that the rule change has resulted in a decrease in the quality of the game.
Conclusion
The MLB changed the extra innings rules in 2020, in an effort to speed up games and reduce the number of injuries sustained by players due to playing too many extra innings. The rule change has been met with mixed reactions from players and fans alike, but it has been successful in reducing the number of extra innings being played.