Report: MLB could use experimental rules during shortened 2020 season
We know that if it happens, the 2020 MLB season will look very different from what we’re used to no matter what. According to one suggestion, it may look even stranger than we initially thought.
According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, various changes are likely to an abbreviated season out of necessity. This includes more divisional games and limited travel, as well as expanded playoffs and potentially expanded rosters.
Heyman adds that rule experiments are also possible, including starting extra innings with a runner at second base.
More possible MLB changes for 2020: limited travel, no x-county flights, more divisional play, expanded rosters, taxi squads, expanded playoffs, more experiments (runner on 2B in extra innings?), more doubleheaders, fewer off days, high-fiving/spitting discouraged or forbidden.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) May 8, 2020
The 2017 World Baseball Classic experimented with a rule that saw a runner start on second in the 11th inning or later. Commissioner Rob Manfred made clear it was not under consideration for use in MLB at the time. However, in a shortened season with potential doubleheaders, bringing extra inning games to a quicker conclusion may be a necessity.
