Major League Baseball is famous for clinging to its past, reflecting a storied heritage that fans cherish. But that can be an obstacle when change is needed and decision makers are reluctant to act or take risks.
The league finally made some highly publicized changes this year responding to fan complaints that games were too slow and boring. The new rules speed up play and encourage more action within games — and thank goodness for that.
Early results have been positive, but this is only the beginning. It will take years for the impact of the new rules to be fully felt as they flow through into the decision-making of teams and players alike. Fans have reason to argue and debate about baseball again, and the sport feels fresh for the first time in years.
