First pitch: 5 MLB spring training storylines we will be watching this week
By Kevin Henry
MLB spring training storyline: How are the new rules impacting the game?
Spring training games will look different this season thanks to the new rules regarding the shift and pitch clocks in 2023. Fans already saw an example of the pitch clock making an impact on a spring training game over the weekend, and it’s clear that MLB umpires will be enforcing the rules and making players adapt to them.
Bottom of the ninth. Tie game. Bases loaded. Full count. The dream scenario. And ... Cal Conley didn't get set in the batter's box with 8 seconds left on the pitch clock.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 25, 2023
Umpire calls an automatic strike. At-bat over. Inning over. This is the new reality. pic.twitter.com/Bv5k2xJ06j
So how are the new rules affecting players on the mound and in the batter’s box? Are younger players who have spent time in Triple-A adjusting to some of the new rules with ease since they have been a part of that level’s play in recent seasons? Is the shift already helping certain players and giving managers hope when their teams are on offense and headaches when they take the field? These are just some of the questions I will be asking in various camps.
Our live in-person coverage of Arizona spring training starts on February 28, so make sure you’re following FanSided MLB on Twitter for the latest news and video snippets.
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