Why a Pitch Clock Will Ruin the Timeless Tradition of Baseball

Explore the reasons why introducing a pitch clock in baseball would be detrimental to the sport. From disrupting the natural pace of the game to increasing the pressure on pitchers, learn why a pitch clock would ruin the timeless tradition of baseball.

Pitch Clock in Baseball
Pitch Clock in Baseball

Before you read on, note that the author listed as writing this article did NOT write this blog – not one word. Instead, he asked the new AI platform ChatGPT to write it using the following prompt:

“Write a blog listing reasons why a pitch clock is bad for baseball.”

The result is one of the strongest arguments the author has read against the pitch clock. While admittedly, it lacks personal references, third-party accounts, and opinion, it is factually a strong essay that’s right over the plate.

As baseball increasingly advances to more AI with robot umpires, instant replay, and now pitch clocks, we wanted to demonstrate how AI can be quite effective in some areas, but can also be jusssst a bit outside.

Baseball is a sport that has been cherished by fans for generations. It is known for its relaxed pace, strategic plays, and timeless traditions. However, in recent years, there has been a push to introduce a pitch clock in order to speed up the game. While this may seem like a good idea on paper, there are several reasons why a pitch clock would be bad for baseball. Here are the Top 7:

1. Disruption of the Natural Pace of the Game

Baseball is a game that is meant to be played at a relaxed pace. A pitch clock would disrupt the natural rhythm of the game and the players, making it feel more rushed and less enjoyable for both players and fans.

2. Increased Pressure on Pitchers

A pitch clock would put more pressure on pitchers to rush through their pitches, which could lead to more injuries. Pitchers would be forced to throw the ball more quickly, which could put extra strain on their arms and shoulders.

3. Lack of Flexibility

A pitch clock may not take into account the unique situations and strategies of each game. For example, a pitcher may need extra time to pick off a runner on base or to make a crucial pitch. A pitch clock would not allow for this flexibility, which could negatively impact the game.

4. Decrease in the Quality of Play

A pitch clock could lead to more balls being thrown outside the strike zone, which would decrease the overall quality of play. This would make the game less exciting for fans and less challenging for players.

5. Unnecessary Change to the Traditional Game

Many fans and players alike view a pitch clock as an unnecessary change to the traditional game of baseball. Baseball has been played for over 150 years without a pitch clock, and many argue that it does not need one now.

6. More Delays and Interruptions in the Game

A pitch clock would lead to more delays and interruptions in the game, which could detract from the viewing experience for fans. This could make the game less enjoyable and less exciting for fans to watch.

7. Game Becomes More About the Clock than the Play On the Field

A pitch clock would shift the focus of the game from the actual play on the field to the clock. This would take away from the excitement and strategy of the game, making it less enjoyable for fans and players alike.

Hurry Up, Let’s Get this Pitch Released

In conclusion, while a pitch clock may seem like a good idea on paper, it would actually be bad for baseball. It would disrupt the natural pace of the game, increase the pressure on pitchers, decrease the quality of play, and take away from the traditional aspects of the game that make it so beloved. Baseball should be enjoyed for the timeless sport it is, without the need of a pitch clock.