Tate Conrad and his son, Miles, enjoyed a day at Wrigley Field, watching the New York Yankees play the Chicago Cubs, a favorite team of Tate’s from his youth in New York. They noticed that the pace of the game has improved over the years, making it a more enjoyable experience for fans like them. The average time of a nine-inning major league game in 2024 was 2 hours, 36 minutes, showing a significant decrease from previous years.
Some fans, like Ken Jahns, prioritize the enjoyment of the game over its duration. However, recent changes in baseball rules, aimed at speeding up the game, seem to have resonated positively with both fans and players. These changes have led to shorter games and increased attendance. The average attendance for MLB games during a recent weekend was the highest since 2015.
Notably, viewership for nationally televised games has increased, and streaming numbers on platforms like MLB.TV have also risen. Players and managers have expressed support for the changes, noting that the faster pace of play has made the game more engaging for both longtime fans and newcomers like Miles Conrad.
Key rule changes, such as the implementation of a pitch clock and limits on disengagements during plate appearances, have contributed to the shorter game times. The introduction of the PitchCom electronic pitch-calling device also played a role in reducing average game time. Despite some initial opposition, players and managers have come to appreciate the benefits of these changes.
Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes praised the pitch clock and suggested additional modifications to further streamline the game. Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro highlighted the positive impact of shorter games on player health and overall enjoyment of the sport.
Overall, the recent improvements in game pace and duration have reinvigorated fan interest and player enthusiasm for baseball. The changes have led to a more dynamic and engaging experience for all involved in America’s favorite pastime.
