Major League Baseball's pitch clock, implemented to accelerate game pace, has sparked considerable discussion regarding its effects on hitters and pitchers. However, a lesser-known consequence is emerging: its potential positive impact on defensive performance.
The constant back-and-forth action enforced by the clock, according to two-time Gold Glove winner Kolten Wong, keeps fielders engaged and focused. Wong, the Seattle Mariners' second baseman, appreciates the lack of downtime, which prevents players from becoming distracted by extraneous activities.
With pitchers having just 15 seconds between pitches with bases empty and 20 seconds with runners on, the pace of play has dramatically increased. The average game length has dropped to 2 hours and 40 minutes, the shortest since 1984, a significant decrease from the 3+ hour average seen in recent years.
This faster pace, while intended to improve fan engagement, appears to be benefiting fielders as well. Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell attributes Christian Yelich's improved outfield performance partly to the pitch clock. Yelich's Outs Above Average (OAA) has risen significantly, suggesting a marked improvement in his defensive skills.
Counsell believes the faster pace keeps defenders alert and engaged, contrasting with the previous slower pace that could lead to lapses in concentration, particularly for outfielders. Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker concurs, noting that long innings and extended periods between plays could make it difficult for infielders to maintain focus.
While the league-wide fielding percentage has reached a historic high of .986, attributing this solely to the pitch clock is difficult. Fielding percentages have been steadily improving over time due to various factors like better field conditions and equipment. Additionally, advanced defensive metrics are difficult to compare year-over-year due to the new restrictions on infield shifts.
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone, while acknowledging the potential benefits of a faster pace for fielders, hasn't observed a clear impact yet. However, many players and managers, upon reflection, agree that the increased tempo likely contributes to improved defensive performance.
Scott Servais, manager of the Mariners, observes that players are more engaged and proactive, anticipating plays rather than being caught off guard. Brewers infielder Owen Miller notes the improved flow of the game and how it keeps infielders agile and responsive. While the exact correlation between the pitch clock and improved fielding remains debatable, the consensus leans towards a positive influence, with increased focus and engagement being key factors.
Whether it's due to the pitch clock or a combination of factors, players and managers across the league are witnessing improved defensive play. Alek Thomas of the Diamondbacks suggests that the heightened engagement keeps players focused on the game, but also acknowledges the possibility that increased athleticism on the field could be playing a role.
