MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred Contemplates Strategic Changes to Extend Starting Pitchers' Role
In an era where baseball's strategic landscape is swiftly evolving, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred is reconsidering how the role of starting pitchers can be preserved and enhanced. In recent statements, Manfred acknowledged the declining innings-per-start metric—a statistic that has dwindled from 6.3 innings in 1984 to just 5.2 in 2024—as a pressing concern. This shift has led to an increased reliance on bullpens to navigate the complexities of modern games.
Manfred is cautious about implementing a stringent minimum inning requirement for starters, describing it as "just too blunt an instrument" to effectively tackle the issue. Instead, he suggests the solution should encompass a suite of regulations designed to encourage teams to cultivate pitchers capable of longer outings.
The Injury Conundrum
Acknowledging the growing prevalence of pitching injuries, Manfred pointed to the intensified focus on velocity and spin rate as contributing factors. "I do see both problems as pretty serious," Manfred remarked. "I think the injury issue, our physicians have studied this carefully [and] they continue to believe that the focus on velocity and spin rate is a specific cause of the increase of injuries."
This observation underscores the complexities clubs face in balancing the desire for high-octane competition with the long-term health of their players. Manfred's comments highlight the ongoing dialogue within the league about how best to manage pitchers' workloads while maintaining the integrity of the game.
Incentivizing Longevity
To foster an environment where teams are motivated to extend starters' appearances, Manfred advocates for a recalibration of transaction rules. Specifically, he suggests changes that would provide clubs with the impetus to develop and maintain rosters featuring pitchers who can endure deeper forays into games. "One of the things that happens today, guy pitches three days in a row, he gets outrighted, they bring somebody else in to give him some rest, as opposed to him staying on the roster the whole time," Manfred noted.
Adjustments in these rules could fundamentally change how teams manage their pitching resources, potentially leading to a resurgence of the traditional starting pitcher role—an aspect of the game that not only influences on-field dynamics but also marketing and broadcasting narratives.
Exploring the "Double Hook" Concept
One innovative idea under consideration is the "Double Hook" concept, which forges a connection between a team's designated hitter slot and the presence of their starting pitcher on the mound. This proposal could change managerial strategies significantly, offering teams a clear incentive to retain their starters longer during games.
Looking Towards Collective Bargaining
As the MLB Collective Bargaining Agreement with the MLB Players Association approaches its expiration in 2026, these discussions are likely to gain urgency. The forthcoming negotiations could serve as a pivotal moment for addressing the multifaceted challenges facing starting pitchers in today's game.
Manfred's contemplation of alternative measures to encourage the sustained presence of starters highlights his commitment to preserving the traditional elements that have defined baseball while adapting to the modern demands of the sport. By thoughtfully considering changes to roster and transaction norms, Manfred is setting the stage for a potential revival of the starter's role, which could benefit both the game's competitive balance and its storytelling capabilities.