The biggest change ahead of the 2023 MLB season is undoubtedly the pitch clock implemented this offseason in an attempt to shorten games. However, not everyone is thrilled with the new rule, including St. Louis Cardinals star pitcher Jack Flaherty.
The pitch clock has affected a number of teams already in spring training. While some pitchers and batters are taking too long with the new ruleset, apparently going too fast is also an issue in the early implementation of the rule.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, MLB clubs have been issued a memo stating that umpires will call a quick pitch if the pitcher throws his pitch before the batter is “reasonably set” in the batter’s box.
Pitchers being called for quick pitches has always been a rule in order to protect hitters. However, the pitch clock has caused this rule to become much more questionable.
It seems like a hitter being “reasonably set” is certainly up to the interpretation of the home plate umpire. This caused Flaherty to absolutely blast this memo on social media.
“Very interesting how all these things were discussed in meetings,” Flaherty tweeted. “Now they want to say “reasonably set” which is very vague, and that the penalties are now different. It is as if they didn’t listen at all.”
Jack Flaherty is certainly not the only pitcher that has had issues with the pitch clock. Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zach Wheeler said earlier this month that it “messes with the game” too much.
While pitchers may not like it, it seems like they have no choice but to get used to it. Especially since it has done its job in drastically speeding up play on the field.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.