**MLB Playoffs: Exposing Game's Flaws**

Zacong

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Post on Oct 30, 2024

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MLB Playoffs: Exposing the Game's Flaws

The MLB playoffs are upon us, a time for baseball fans to rejoice and anticipate the thrill of postseason baseball. But amidst the excitement, there's an undercurrent of unease. The playoffs, in their current format, are exposing the inherent flaws within the game itself.

The Problem with Pitching Dominance

The 2023 playoffs have been dominated by pitching. Teams with elite pitching staffs have consistently stifled offenses, resulting in low-scoring affairs and, at times, snooze-worthy games. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it does highlight a growing imbalance in the game.

Why is pitching so dominant?

• The rise of "launch angle" hitting: While hitters are focusing on launching balls for home runs, they are sacrificing contact, leading to more strikeouts and fewer balls in play.
• Advanced analytics and pitch sequencing: Pitchers have access to data that helps them exploit hitters' weaknesses, making them more effective in the strike zone.
• Increased reliance on relief pitching: Bullpens are more specialized than ever, leading to an abundance of dominant arms designed to shut down hitters in crucial situations.

The Diminishing Role of Offense

The offensive struggles in the playoffs are a symptom of a larger problem. The focus on home runs over contact has led to a decline in overall offensive production. Teams are struggling to generate runs, and this is impacting the excitement and entertainment value of the games.

What can be done?

• Encourage a return to contact hitting: Emphasize the value of putting the ball in play, reducing the reliance on home runs.
• Reduce the influence of analytics: Limit the access to detailed hitter data to create a more unpredictable playing field.
• Reimagine the role of the designated hitter (DH): This could involve implementing the DH in both leagues or experimenting with new rules that incentivize more contact.

The Need for Change

While the MLB Playoffs are undoubtedly exciting, they also highlight the game's shortcomings. The dominance of pitching, the decline of offense, and the influence of analytics are issues that need to be addressed. If the MLB wants to maintain its popularity and appeal to a broader audience, it needs to find ways to rebalance the game and ensure that it remains an entertaining spectacle for fans.

It's time for the MLB to take a hard look at the current state of the game and make changes that prioritize offense and create a more balanced and exciting product.