Get Ready For More ‘Sticky Stuff’ Checks and Balk Calls In MLB. In recent years, there has been increasing concern among Major League Baseball (MLB) officials about the use of foreign substances by pitchers to gain an advantage on the mound.
These substances, often referred to as “sticky stuff,” can enhance a pitcher’s grip on the ball. Thus allowing them to throw pitches with more spin and movement than they would be able to otherwise.
MLB’s Response
MLB has announced that it will be stepping up its enforcement of rules against the use of foreign substances. Umpires will be conducting more frequent and thorough checks of pitchers during games. Teams will also be responsible for monitoring their own pitchers to ensure compliance with the rules.
While the use of foreign substances has long been a part of baseball culture, the crackdown is intended to create a level playing field for all pitchers. To maintain the integrity of the game.
It remains to be seen how effective these new measures will be in deterring the use of sticky stuff, but they represent a significant effort by MLB to address a longstanding issue in the sport.
MLB has announced that umpires will conduct more random and unpredictable inspections of pitchers during games in the upcoming season. This will make it more difficult for pitchers to time their use of foreign substances to avoid detection. It also will increase the likelihood of catching those who do use them.
What Are The Consequences If You Get Caught?
Last season, there were no pitchers found to be violating the rule via these spot checks. But the increased scrutiny and more random inspections this season may lead to more ejections and suspensions.
Pitchers who are found to be in violation are subject to ejection and a 10-game suspension.
Pitchers are allowed to use rosin to dry their hands, and sunscreen or other similar substances are allowed. But it must be approved by the umpires.
However, substances such as pine tar or spider tack are considered illegal. These can result in penalties if used by pitchers during games.
What About Balk Calls?
Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced that it will be more strict in enforcing the balk rule during the upcoming season.
This means that umpires will be more vigilant in looking for balks, and pitchers will need to adjust their movements and actions to avoid violating the rule.
Pitch clock and restrictions on defensive shifts are also some new rules implemented this year by MLB. I am a big fan of those two new rules. Whatever they can do to speed up the game and gain interest from the younger generation is a good thing.
More on this story and more coming up today on Shemon and Sheppard 2-6pm.
Only thing left to say is “Play Ball!”
