What if a team could choose one at-bat to send its best hitter to the plate even if it wasn't that guy's turn to hit? MLB could test it out.
The article from The Athletic discusses the introduction of the "Golden At-Bat Rule" in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the 2024 season. This new rule aims to add excitement to games by giving teams a strategic advantage in extra innings. If a game goes into extra innings, each team gets one "Golden At-Bat" per inning where the batter starts with a 3-0 count, potentially leading to more scoring opportunities and shortening game times. The rule has sparked debate among fans and players, with some appreciating the potential for more thrilling finishes, while others argue it disrupts the traditional essence of baseball. The rule is part of MLB's ongoing efforts to modernize the game, increase viewer engagement, and address issues like game length and pace of play.