MLB Should Keep Leagues, Expand DH, and Shorten Season: A Reevaluation of Current Protocols

Baseball, as we know it in the Major League Baseball (MLB), has a rich history and deep cultural roots. With that in mind, discussing potential changes such as eliminating league divisions, adopting the Designated Hitter (DH) rule across both leagues, and shortening the season can ignite a fervent debate among fans, players, and league administrators. However, some argue that maintaining status quo wouldn't be a grave loss and that certain changes could genuinely invigorate the sport.

Maintaining Leagues

While many may advocate for a consolidation of the two leagues into one, reducing the complexity and ensuring that every team competes for a fair chance in the World Series, maintaining the two-league system is a cornerstone of MLB's identity. The American League (AL) and National League (NL) have defined their respective identities based on the pitching rules, with the AL utilizing the DH and the NL enforcing the pitcher batting rule. This dichotomy is a significant part of what makes the sport unique and culturally rich. Eliminating leagues would be a significant departure from this tradition and might even necessitate shifting the qualify and determine World Series participants, which would traditionally require league champions.

Expanding the Designated Hitter (DH)

The DH rule, introduced in 1973, has been a divisive topic for decades. Proponents argue that it increases the batting effectiveness of pitchers who would otherwise be required to bat and thus contribute to the offense. The lack of a DH in the National League can often lead to boring or frustrating moments where a pitcher must strike out, thereby halting the offensive progress. Allowing the DH rule in both leagues could significantly enhance the viewership experience and improve the overall game dynamics. For instance, it would eliminate the situation where a lone strikeout can end an inning prematurely, leading to quicker and more exciting baseball games.

In addition to enhancing the game for fans, the addition of the DH would also cater to the players' benefit. Currently, pitchers are required to face more at-bats, which can be nerve-wracking and detrimental to their mental and physical health. The DH rule simplifies their roles, allowing them to focus on pitching, which is what they train for year-round. It’s significant to note that the Player’s Union might be open to this change, as it could add more roster spots, thereby creating 15 new job opportunities for players.

Shortening the Season

The concept of shortening the MLB season to 140 games has both pros and cons. While a shorter season could contribute to a longer off-season, allowing teams to rest players and address any injuries, it would also result in fewer revenue-generating opportunities. Games are a significant source of income for the league, and a shorter season would cut into overall financial benefits. However, the idea of starting the season mid-April and ending it by mid-September could give the sport a more cohesive and manageable timeline, making it easier for teams and players to plan their schedules and maintain a balance between the playing and off-season.

Challenges and Possibilities

Some critics argue that a shorter season would dilute the quality of the games, as fewer matches mean less exposure for both players and teams. Additionally, the physical strain on players during a shortened season could be significant, as the pace of the games would likely increase, leading to more intense competition and potential health risks. On the other hand, a shorter season offers players more time to recover and prepare for the next season, which could lead to better performance and reduced injuries in the long run.

Potential for Expansion and Playoffs

MLB is also considering the expansion of teams, which could lead to a more complex scheduling and playoff system. Adding 32 teams instead of 30 would require a reevaluation of the league's structure, including new divisional setups and expanded playoffs. For instance, with four eight-team divisions in each league, the playoffs could adopt a best-of-five series format, adding an extra layer of excitement and tension to the Wild Card, Division Series, and League Championship Series. This would extend the season into mid-November, making the final playoff games more challenging and compelling.

However, the inherent risks associated with such an expansion include increased stadium costs, which could be a significant issue for teams like the Rays and Athletics, who are currently facing financial challenges. Additionally, the need to play in colder, harsher climates could affect the quality and consistency of the game, making long, grueling, and later-season games less enjoyable for both players and fans. To mitigate this, championship games could be moved to warm-weather or indoor stadiums, rotating between different venues to ensure a fair playing environment.

Another potential solution to address the winter playing concerns could be expanding the series to a best-of-seven format, similar to the NHL playoffs. This would further enhance the revenue-generating potential of the playoffs and create more excitement for fans, making the championship games more significant and memorable.

In conclusion, while the idea of eliminating leagues, adopting the DH rule across both leagues, and shortening the season may seem appealing at first glance, it is crucial to consider the various implications and challenges such changes would bring. Over time, MLB might find a more balanced approach, such as the expansion of the playoffs with a best-of-five format and a well-planned schedule that accommodates the unique aspects of baseball while enhancing the overall game experience for its fans.