NEW YORK (AP) — In an attempt to speed up the game, baseball has eliminated the four-pitch intentional walk. Now when a team wants to walk a player, all the manager will have to do is signal the intent to the umpire. The player will then get first base.
The players’ association approved the move, which was proposed by Major League Baseball.
Agreement with the union is required for changes in playing rules unless MLB gives notice one year in advance, in which case it can unilaterally make alterations.
There were 932 intentional walks last year, including 600 in the National League, where batters are walked to bring the pitcher’s slot to the plate.
