Interesting article about MLB and defensive shifts

[BobbyStrawberry]

https://theathletic.com/3417955/2022...t-rule-change/

[D. Bergin]

Originally Posted by BobbyStrawberry

https://theathletic.com/3417955/2022...t-rule-change/

Started to read, and then got hit with a paywall.

[BobbyStrawberry]

Originally Posted by D. Bergin

Started to read, and then got hit with a paywall.

https://w900dk.com/explain-the-next-...e-of-pie-rule/

Edit - just realized that version is full of word salad. The gist of it is that MLB wants to create an area behind second base, extending outward in both directions, in which fielders are not allowed to stand. The idea is that it will bring back the "up the middle" single by forcing the defense to leave that area open. The comments section on the article is interesting too, as I was surprised to see that a large majority of commenters seemed to be in favor of the idea.

[mrreality68]

I believe they should not ban the shift. This are supposed to be pro Pitchers and Hitters.

Part of the game is managing and strategy. IF your team thinks the shift is needed do it. IF the other team role is to react and adjust(ie as Willie Keeler said "hit it where they aint")

the problem as the game evolves the skill set of the modern player is lost (ie many do not know how to bunt, strike outs at at all time highs(now trying to just hit Home Runs), lower averages etc

[BobbyStrawberry]

Originally Posted by mrreality68

I believe they should not ban the shift. This are supposed to be pro Pitchers and Hitters.

Part of the game is managing and strategy. IF your team thinks the shift is needed do it. IF the other team role is to react and adjust(ie as Willie Keeler said "hit it where they aint")

the problem as the game evolves the skill set of the modern player is lost (ie many do not know how to bunt, strike outs at at all time highs(now trying to just hit Home Runs), lower averages etc

I completely agree, Jeff. Many of the commenters, though, argued that the "hit it where they ain't" is now too difficult, even for many the best hitters today, due to the velocity uptick in pitching. Another suggestion proposed which I find less objectionable is lowering the mound.

[mrreality68]

I personally think it is not the pitching but the modern hitting philosophy. Swing for the fences and it is okay to strike out 190 plus times a year and it is ok to have a low 200 average as long as you hit homers. When you swing for fences you do not have the skill set for small ball, adjusting your swing to spray the ball all over the field.
I am not sure about lowering the mound and not sure it’s impact so I cannot comment