July 12, 2022

Bermuda Grass Triangle

MLB is testing a new pattern in the Florida State League to prevent shifts. (Link may require a subscription.) They will chalk in a triangle from the tip of second base to the outfield grass to prevent infielders from playing behind the bag. I find the reason interesting (emphasis added):

There are shift rules, implemented in 2021, already in place up through Double A. One prevents infielders from playing on the outfield grass, and another stipulates that two infielders must be positioned on either side of second base.

The latter rule hasn’t led to the results MLB wanted, as a shortstop or second baseman can station himself just inches to the side of second base, all the way back to the outfield grass. So MLB will watch what happens in the Low-A league closely to see if the change generates more offense.

TheAthletic.com

Is that another way of saying that shifting doesn’t make that much of a difference? This may be another reason to let the game evolve. Eventually, if the shift really makes a difference, batters will adjust.

1 thought on “Bermuda Grass Triangle

  1. Jeff A

    I’ve seen enough to know that most major league batters can go the other way when they want to. If they don’t want to, well, it seems like that’s their choice.

    ReplyReply

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