Here is all you need to know about the MLB rule changes for the 2023 season, check out
The 2023 MLB season will feature larger bases, a pitch timer, and restrictions on defensive shifts, all of which were approved by the joint competition committee in October.
The rules described above are designed to speed up play and encourage activity on the field.
They will be used immediately during Spring Training games to give players time to get acquainted with them before Opening Day.
MLB 2023 season rule changes explained and new rules list
Almost 8,000 Minor League games and the breakaway Atlantic League were used to test all of the changes before MLB implemented them.
What are the new rules for the 2023 MLB season?
Pitch Timer
Pitchers have 15 seconds to begin their motion, or 20 seconds if there is at least one runner on base. Moreover, pitchers will have a 30-second timer between batters.
Every plate appearance allows pitchers to exit the rubber twice without paying a penalty, which resets the clock. If there are any more, unless a runner is declared out, they will be regarded as baulks. If the baserunner advances, the pitch clock also restarts.
Every plate appearance will also grant a hitter one timeout, and they must enter the batter’s box with at least eight seconds remaining.
Umpires may provide more time in some circumstances, like when the catcher records the final out of an inning and requires more time to put on his gear.
Shift restrictions
Two infielders must be lined up on either side of the second base as the pitch is released, and when the pitcher is on the rubber, all four infielders must have both feet inside the outside boundary of the infield. They can’t change sides until someone else intervenes.
An automatic ball is a penalty for violating the shift restrictions. The new shift rules, according to MLB, are designed to increase the number of balls in play, give players more opportunities to showcase their athleticism and combat the trend towards four-outfielder outfield combinations that are on the rise.
Larger bases
First, second, and third bases will now measure an 18-inch square instead of the traditional 15-inch square to increase player safety and encourage teams to steal more often.
Automatic runner on second base in extra innings
Similar to the past three seasons, teams will begin every inning after the ninth with an automatic runner on second base. Only games played during the regular season will be covered by this.
Restrictions for position players used as pitchers
Position players are not allowed to pitch until their team leads by at least 10 runs in the ninth inning, if the game is in extra innings, or if they are down by at least eight runs at any point in the game.
_________ will have the most saves in 2023. pic.twitter.com/YMKRWmcC1x
— MLB (@MLB) March 4, 2023