New rules

Here is a look at the significant rules changes adopted by MLB for the 2023 season.

On The Clock

In an effort to speed up play, pitchers will have 15 seconds to throw a pitch with the bases empty and 20 seconds with a runner on base. If the pitcher does not start his delivery before the pitch clock expires, he’s charged with a ball. Hitters have to be on their toes, too: It’s an automatic strike, if you’re not in the batter’s box with at least eight seconds left on the clock.

SO LONG, SHIFT

The days of seeing three players on the right side of second base or a gaping hole where a third baseman typically is positioned are over, now that the (some say overused) “shift” has been pared down. Two players have to be positioned on each side of second base and no more infielders setting up on the outfield grass — all four infielders are required to stay on the dirt, although they can move anywhere they want once the pitch is thrown. If the positioning rule is violated, the hitting team can decide to let the result of the play stand or add one ball to the hitter’s count.

Two And Through

In another effort to speed up the game — and create more action on the base paths — pitchers can only throw to a base or step off the rubber twice during the same plate appearance. Once the limit is reached, another “disengagement” will result in a balk. The rule figures to drive catchers and pitching coaches nuts trying to devise new ways to control the running game, which for the most part had become a non-factor in the analytics era of baseball.

Game Of Fewer Inches

You might not notice it, but the size of all the bases will be increased from 15 inches to 18 inches. The slightly shorter distance will make a difference in all those close plays — especially stolen base attempts — but also should reduce injuries around the bags. Don’t worry about home plate. Those dimensions have not changed.