MarkRedman
Well-known member
In discussing various possible MLB rule changes designed to speed up the game, one idea that has recently been floated is to limit the number of relief pitchers that a team can use in an inning/game. In a recent interview, the commissioner did not discount the idea and thought that it may have some merit.
If this rule was in place last year, the Royals might not have won the World Series. Many teams today have built their rosters to have separate 7th, 8th and 9th inning relief specialists. They're glad when a starting pitcher can give them 6 good innings. In fact, a relatively new stat, the "quality start" is defined as a starting pitcher who pitches 6 innings and gives up no more than 3 runs.
Before we go that route, I offer some alternatives:
1. Cut back the manager's/pitching coach's trips to the mound
2. Go back to the Sparky Lyle days and drive the pitcher in from the bullpen. I miss the Nissan
3. Limit warmups to 2-3 pitches. The guy warmed up in the pen and should be ready to go
4. Do not allow a relief pitcher to pitch to one hitter and be replaced in the same inning
Any thoughts?
If this rule was in place last year, the Royals might not have won the World Series. Many teams today have built their rosters to have separate 7th, 8th and 9th inning relief specialists. They're glad when a starting pitcher can give them 6 good innings. In fact, a relatively new stat, the "quality start" is defined as a starting pitcher who pitches 6 innings and gives up no more than 3 runs.
Before we go that route, I offer some alternatives:
1. Cut back the manager's/pitching coach's trips to the mound
2. Go back to the Sparky Lyle days and drive the pitcher in from the bullpen. I miss the Nissan
3. Limit warmups to 2-3 pitches. The guy warmed up in the pen and should be ready to go
4. Do not allow a relief pitcher to pitch to one hitter and be replaced in the same inning
Any thoughts?
