JCT66

The other recent rule changes were done primarily as a way to offset coaching and strategy trends that had negatively impacted the game (i.e. limiting the shift, limiting the amount of pitcher substitutions, and trying to ensure speed, baserunning, and stealing remained relevant). These changes were very successful because they were helped to return the game to its roots. The one exception to that is the Ghost Runner in extra innings, but that was probably worthwhile in order to end the occasional marathon games that would occur. This proposed change is just idiotic in so many ways. Think of the impact it could have in player statistics, which is one of the great advantages that baseball has over other sports. I wonder how many extra HR's or RBI's Aaron Judge would get in a season if he was given an extra plate appearance every game.

This was a really insightful article. That graph really provides a clear picture of their problem at the plate. I'm just not sure what is driving the September decline. Given the injuries and amount of IL time for so many of our players you would think if anything they should be less fatigued than other teams.

2-2 against Cleveland will leave them in good shape. I think 6-7 over the last 4 series gets them in. If they do that the Tigers or the Mariners would have to go 9-3 which seems unlikely with series against the Royals and Orioles (for the Tigers) and Yankees and Astros (for the Mariners). If necessary, Ober and Lopez can each be able to pitch 3 more times. Any kind of reversion to the mean offensively should allow for 6-7.