2 Intriguing Baseball Rule Changes To Be Tested In Minor Leagues

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 21: Jurickson Profar #10 of the San Diego Padres is called for a strike on an attempted checked swing during the ninth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies in game three of the National League Championship Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 21, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) Getty Images Minor League Baseball has traditionally been a testing ground for potential major league rule changes. If MLB finds rule changes are successful in the experimental stage, the changes are often implemented in major league games.

That was the case with balls and strikes (ABS system) challenges, which will be used this season. Now, MLB has decided to experiment in minor league games with rule changes that could eventually find their way to big league games. Two rules to be tested this season could impact accuracy in offensive at-bats, and the excitement of games.

MLB is addressing one of the more controversial questions that has impacted baseball games forever. Did the hitter swing, or did he check his swing in time? Did he go too far in his swing, or did he stop the conclusion of his swing before the umpire could call it a swinging strike?

Currently, When such questionable swings are in doubt, the home plate umpire can check with the third base umpire (against left-handed hitter) or the first base umpire (against right-handed hitter) to seek help in the swing or no-swing decision. New Rule Experiment No. 1- Swing or No-Swing?