MLB Considering 6-Inning Minimum Rule for Starting Pitchers: Potential Rule Change Under Discussion

MLB is reportedly weighing a significant rule change that could mandate starting pitchers to pitch at least six innings before being removed, according to ESPN's Jesse Rogers. This idea stems from a desire to bring back the prominence of starting pitchers, which has dwindled as teams increasingly rely on relievers and bullpen games.

Exceptions would be made if a pitcher throws over 100 pitches, allows four or more earned runs, or suffers an injury that leads to an IL stint. Implementing this rule would require years of preparation, particularly in the minor leagues, to help pitchers adjust to the increased workload.

Currently, starting pitchers average just over five innings per start, compared to over six innings four decades ago. The proposed rule aims to reverse this trend by encouraging deeper outings from starters, which could help phase out the use of "openers"—a strategy popularized by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2018, where a reliever pitches the first inning before handing it over to a long reliever.

Although this proposal is still in its early stages, it follows MLB's recent history of implementing major rule changes, like the introduction of the pitch clock in 2023. Arizona Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen has even suggested considering a five-batter minimum for relievers as another way to incentivize longer outings by starters.

If MLB chooses to explore this rule further, it could initially be tested in independent leagues like the Atlantic League, where the league has previously experimented with potential changes before introducing them to the majors. The ultimate goal of this proposal would be to keep star pitchers on the mound longer and bring back the dominance of starters in the game.

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