Now Warming Up…MLB!

Let's start with the Opener.

***MLB will continue to look for creative rule changes. They have enjoyed positive fan feedback on the changes around the increased speed of the games due to pitch clocks, limited throws to first with runners on, and even bigger bases. Now, MLB is considering plans to keep starting pitchers in the games they are pitching. Perhaps rules around effectiveness and number of pitches would be part of any new rule.  I’m unsure if this is a change that MLB fans would like.  What exact problem would they be solving?  Lowering the number of pitching changes in a game?  What qualifications would you want to keep a starting pitcher in the game?

Now to the Set Up Man.

***Shohei Ohtani’s 40/40 season (so far) was discussed here last week and his probability of winning the 2024 NL MVP as the first designated hitter to win the award.  However, NY Mets shortstop, Fransico Lindor, is being showered with “MVP” chants every at-bat he takes in Queens nowadays.  While playing a premier position at a Gold-Glove level, Lindor also has an .274 average, with 30 HRs, 38 doubles, and 26 stolen bases.  MLB writers will have to weigh the value of playing in the field before voting for the awesome Shohei Ohtani who has only swung the bat in 2024.  And, wow, has he.

Now the Closer.

Pitching, pitching everywhere, but where are the innings with positive results?  There are currently only eight pitchers with a sub-3.00 ERA and 100 or more innings logged.  Tarik Skubal of the Tigers is one of them.  With 16 wins, a 2.51 ERA, and over 200 strikeouts, a Cy Young award may be in short order for the ace.  With so few quality innings in MLB, it is not surprising that the few elite throwers are making astronomical salaries when they hit the free agent market. 

 "Enjoying success requires the ability to adapt. Only by being open to change will you have a true opportunity to get the most from your talent." ~ Nolan Ryan