MLB discusses new rules that aim to boost action and improve pace ahead of Opening Day

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Major League Baseball is gearing up for opening day with new game rules designed to increase action and improve the pace of play, according to Joe Martinez, Vice President of On-Field Strategy for MLB.

Martinez spoke with us on Wednesday, March 29, outlining several rule changes that have already been implemented during spring training.

One such change is the pitch clock, which aims to encourage players to move at a quicker pace by putting a time limit on different events in the game. Martinez noted that the pitch clock has already reduced spring training game times by about 25 minutes without sacrificing action or run scoring.

Additionally, MLB has introduced larger bases for players' safety, giving them more room to maneuver and reducing the likelihood of injuries. This change also aims to encourage more aggressiveness on the base pads.

New shifting rules are set to reintroduce a more traditional look and feel to the game, opening up spaces for hits and allowing athletes to showcase their defensive abilities.

Martinez believes that the above changes, as well as others, will give fans more of what they want when the 2023 season kicks off on Thursday, March 30.