New Rules for the 2020 MLB Season

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Listen up everybody! We all know that the upcoming MLB season will only be 60 games. But what some of you may not know is that there are gonna be certain rules in place for only this season due to the circumstances. Now you're probably asking, "what are these new rules, John?". As always, I gotchu guys.

1. The Universal DH
As ya'll may know, the American League implements a designated hitter role in the line up while the National League allows the pitcher to hit. For this season, both the AL and NL with have the DH. The thought behind this is to protect the health of pitchers adjusting to the shortened season. Though NL teams have never played with a DH full time, (only when playing at an AL teams ballpark), I think this will benefit all NL teams. For example, teams won't have to waste an at-bat and essentially an out by replacing the pitcher with another guy that can hit.

2. Extra Innings Will Start With A Runner On Second Base
To keep the game moving and prevent it from going into the frikin 18th inning, MLB has implemented a rule where a runner starts on second as soon as the game passes the 9 inning. This rule has been in effect in the minor leagues for the past two seasons and has shown promise. In fact, from an ESPN article by Steve Richards, he reported that with this rule, 73% of extra-inning games ended in the 10th inning, and 93% ended within two innings of the 9th. Personally, this rule could turn into a bunt-off to try and advance the runner. This rule does plop in an element of instant excitement so I'm excited to see it play out.

3. The Three Batter Minimum
Not new due to COVID, this rule was actually implemented before the start of the season. This rule states that pitchers must face a minimum of three batters before being taken out of the game. Commissioner of baseball, Rob Manfred, said that this would quicken the pace of the game due to the decreased pitching changes.

4. No Spitting, No Finger Licking, No Sunflower Seeds
I understand why the league is implementing this but this is a little silly if you ask me. Sunflower seeds and baseball go together like peanut butter and jelly. Just another adjustment that the players and staff will have to make.

Those are just some of the rule changes for the 2020 MLB season, tune into my podcast "The Double Nickel 5port5 Podcast" on SoundCloud where I'll go into more depth. New episode drops Thursday night.


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