Why doesn't baseball have universal rules, particularly field size! why not have all fields the same size?

Answer 1

Baseball is the only sport where the playing field is different from one venue to another. In football, basketball, hockey and soccer, the dimensions of the actual playing area are identical. In baseball, while the infield and foul lines are the same in any park, the outfield dimensions vary from stadium to stadium. You can argue that players and pitchers in one park have an advantage over players from other teams. A good example is Willie Mays who played in Candlestick Park in San Francisco. The outfield walls were very deep, and the weather and wind conditions were not as friendly for a power hitter. It is estimated that had he played his home games in any other park, he would have been the current home run king. The argument here is that if all outfields were the same dimensions, no team and it's players would have an advantage. Still others will argue that the differences are what make the sport interesting and challenging. It really is a matter of personal opinion.

Answer 2

it keeps thing exciting when the fields come in all shapes and sizes. to see how teams adapt to the different playing conditions is fun, knowing that a homer hit in wrigely would be a long fly ball in many other parks. Watching how pitchers make decisions on how to pitch a guy depending on what park they might be in. Having variety in the field design keeps the game fun.

Answer 3

I think it's part of baseball's charm, that parks are designed differently. Some sports need uniformity, but I think it would not go over well in baseball given how large a role stadiums play in the game.

As long as there are minimum standards, I don't have much of a problem with the variations.

Answer 4

The bylaws do specify the minimum distance for the fences, but it has been ignored for years under Selig. Most new stadiums are not the minimum distance down the lines. Otherwise, it is up to the team to design their own field.

Answer 5

i like the each baseball stadium has it's unique shape and size. the only thing that needs to be consistent, the diamond, is consistent. but each park has it's own uniqueness which makes it special. and if the outfielders can master weird angles and various corners...then you may truly have a home field advantage.

Answer 6

They do. 60'6" from the rubber to home plate. the distance between the bases shall be 90'. Home plate is of a specified size so are the bases. Every diamond is exaclty the same. What are you talking about? How could it be otherwise.

Answer 7

With the fields being different shapes it gives the home team an advantage because they know how to play it off the walls because they know the bounces. there are no other sports like it.

Answer 8

I think that would definitely curb the numbers for some of these guys hitting cheap "homeruns". Under 350, I still think, is quite pathetic.

Answer 9

one reason also is the stadiums where built in urban areas with limited space many years ago.plus the teams are so identifiable with their city they almost have to stay in city limits.except the anahiem angels of greater los angeles/orange county.

Answer 10

football stadiums don't all have the same grass, basketball courts are made from different wood, so what?