What one rule in MBL would you change to make the game better?

Question

Real suggestions only please that realistically could be implemented. Let's leave the DH out of this one.

Of course I mean MLB!!

Great answers so far, I hope we get more.

J-FAR, I agree with you but that is a collective bargaining negotiation between MLB and the union, and not a rule change.

Answer 1

The all-star game should NOT be the deciding factor in home field advantage for the World Series. In my opinion, the World Series contendor with the best record should have home field advantage.

Answer 2

many levels of baseball already have these rules, and I think they would work well in the MLB

1st, I'd allow intentional walks with no pitches thrown, just tell the ump to put the runner on and keep the game moving, I know there was the case of someone hitting a pitch during an intentional walk, and there is occasionally a wild pitch or balk, but realistically its more exciting to keep the game moving than to have one of these events every few years

2nd, I would allow a courtesy runner for catchers (and/or pitchers in the NL). this would put more speed on the bases and result in a more exciting game with more stolen bases. It would also protect pitchers from injuries and help catchers save their energy for defense. Being a long-time catcher I can say that you really need to sit down between innings to rest your legs, even if you are in great shape your legs get tired and running the bases ends up being a chore, why not let some young speedster do that and let the catchers concentrate on what really matters for them-defense.

in response to the answer below about catcher's interference, the idea is not that a batter is taking a bad swing, the idea is that if the catcher sits too close to the plate, and the batter hits his glove, it changes the direction of his swing takes away his fair chance to hit the ball. It would be like if a runner intentionally hit a thrown ball to keep from getting out, then you called it a bad throw, your logic just doesn't make sense.

In response to TedEx regarding the rule about not stepping out every pitch, its a good idea, they have this rule in High School, you are still allowed to step out with one foot to take your sign, and the pitcher must wait for you, but you don't have all day. Good Idea.

Answer 3

I also believe the All-Star Game shouldn't determine who gets home field advantage in the World Series. It creates to many complications. How are you going to have the All-Star game be the deciding factor for this and the line-up be dictated by the fans vote. Just cause a player is popular doesn't mean he's the best at that position. Not only is this a problem, but the coach is sometimes put in a bind on using pitchers in the game. Organizations might not want their pitcher pitching a certain amount of innings or he might be on a strict pitch count. Also, what about teams that won't even be affected by winning or losing the All-Star game cause they are so far out of playoff contention. Lastly, I remember the days when the All-Star break was exactly that, a break. It use to be such a fan favorite because of how much fun it was. I went to the 2004 All-Star game in Houston and watched Clemens get rocked in the first inning all because he was out campaigning for the city of Houston and out interacting with the fans and didn't really get a chance to prepare for the game. The All-Star game needs to go back to the way it used to be back in the day when it was all about fun

Answer 4

Baseball is a great game. Changes that are made should not cause the integrity of the game to go down.

Fan interference - I think if a fan can catch a ball in fair territory to make it a home run, it should count as a homerun instead of an out as long as no contact is made.

Another rule that I am not for and would take away from the game, but would put fans in the stands and make the game more interesting - If a fan interferes with a play in foul territory it should be fair game.

This would definitely piss players off, especially in Boston, but it would be fun to watch fans try harder to help out their team.

I like the courtesy runner rule that someone said, but the intent of that rule is to speed up the game, yes a player like nook logan would be ideal as a courtesy runner, and it would be a little more exciting, but rules are rules.

Answer 5

Here's a rule which was implemented in the minor leagues recently.
((AA Eastern league))
Once a batter gets in the batters box,to begin his at bat, he must keep one foot in the box at all times if he takes a pitch or fouls one off. No more stepping out when the pitcher is ready, the ump can call a strike if the batter is not ready when the pitcher is. It DOES speed up the game.
I think it favors the pitchers, their rhythm isn't being messed up as much.

Answer 6

Well, since you eliminated the DH from discussion, I'd limit the amount of body armor that the batters can wear. Armor should be used for safety, not to give an advantage to the batter.

Answer 7

I would raise the mound to allow a better advantage for the pitchers and create a better balance for the game. I wouldn't raise back to the level it was in 1968 (the year before it was lowered), but I would split the difference and raise back to half the height it was previously.

Answer 8

id leave the pitching for IBB bcuz that gives guys in the bullpen a chance to throw a few more warmups

id leave the DH

id leave interleague play

the one thing i would change is catcher interference

if a batter swings and hits the catchers glove, it could be the batter taking a poor swing (ive seen it, and even seen guys purposly take swings like that)

GET RID OF THE CATCHER INTERFERENCE

AND BASEBALL DOES NOT NEED INSTANT REPLAY
BANG-BANG CALLS KEEP THE GAME INTERESTING AND FANS ON THE EDGE OF THEIR SEAT

Answer 9

Remove the DH....any lamebrain can manage an American League game...add a player on the roster to assuage the Player's Union.

Interleague Play has to go, too...see my quesion about re-alignment.

Answer 10

Instand Replay. Almost all sports now have it...hockey, football, basketball, tennis, college football. It will not hurt our game, it will make it better. Of course leaving out the judgement of a ball or strike