MLB Playoffs 2025: Essential Rule Changes You Need to Know

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MLB Playoffs 2025: Essential Rule Changes You Need to Know

MLB Postseason 2023: Key Changes and Rules to Know

Understanding the Rule Changes in MLB Postseason 2023

The MLB postseason is in full swing, bringing along a set of rule changes distinct from the regular season. As fans gear up for a month of thrilling matches, it’s important to understand these changes to appreciate the games fully.

Extra Innings: No More ‘Ghost Runner’

One of the significant changes in the postseason is the removal of the “ghost runner” on second base, which was a staple during the regular season for extra innings. This reversion to traditional rules means that extra innings will start with no runners on base, potentially leading to slightly longer games as managers dig deeper into their bullpens.

Increased Challenge Opportunities for Managers

Unlike the regular season where managers have only one challenge, in the postseason they receive two challenges per game. Retaining a challenge depends on whether the initial call is overturned. If the call stands, the team loses that challenge. This increase in challenges can influence game outcomes and managerial strategies significantly.

Ongoing Regular Season Rules

Pitch Clock: The 30-second timer between batters remains, along with the 15-second timer with bases empty, and 20 seconds with runners on base.
Pickoff Attempt Limits: Pitchers are restricted to two disengagements (pickoff attempts or step-offs) per plate appearance. This resets if the runner advances.
Three-Batter Minimum: Pitchers must face at least three batters or finish an inning. Returning for a second inning requires completing the three-batter minimum.

Home-Field Advantage in the World Series

The team with the better regular-season record among the pennant winners gains home-field advantage in the World Series. If both have identical records, a predetermined tiebreaker system is employed to decide who gets the home-field advantage in the Fall Classic.

Stay tuned with Emegypt for more updates and insights on the MLB postseason.