New Security Discourse in MLB: Regulation for Dangerous Fastballs in Prospect

The baseball veteran Whit Merrifield, a member of the MLB Competition Committee, has announced that new rules will be introduced by the next season to penalize dangerous pitcher maneuvers. Merrifield made this forecast a day after being hit in the head by a 95 mph pitch. The committee, comprising eleven members, including six club representatives, four players, and one umpire, met as scheduled, primarily to discuss the Automatic Ball-Strike System (ABS). However, Merrifield took the opportunity to put the punishment of pitchers endangering batters on the agenda. Many players, including Merrifield, are advocating for a regulation that holds pitchers accountable for hitting batters with high and inside fastballs. Merrifield stated that the committee’s response was generally positive. "Yes, we will have a regulation in place by the start of the next season," he asserted confidently. Following the medical examination, Merrifield's health condition was stable, although the effects of the collision were still noticeable. Whether he could play in the final game against Colorado would be decided based on his condition. Merrifield's determined appeal after the incident resonated significantly in the baseball world. Many, including pitchers, expressed agreement, acknowledging that the current status quo is unsustainable. "I have received countless messages from players who share my anger," said Merrifield, "even from pitchers, which is quite surprising." He emphasized that the focus now is on the exact wording of the rule, including how to handle situations where the batter intentionally avoids the ball. Brian Snitker, coach of the Braves, reinforced Merrifield's argument. After several injuries to his players resulting from fastballs, he also appealed to MLB to take action. He believes such a regulatory framework should prevent inexperienced pitchers from entering the major league too early and pitching without adequate control. Merrifield himself was hit by Rockies rookie Jeff Criswell, who in the same short stint also issued three walks. For Merrifield, this was the last straw. "It's simply absurd that such pitchers are employed at this level," he ranted. The problem found widespread support in the committee meeting the following day. Players like Corbin Burnes from the Orioles, Austin Slater from the Giants, and Ian Happ from the Cubs also engaged in intensive discussions. References were made to other sports that mitigate dangerous behaviors through strict sanctions. Merrifield is optimistic that MLB will soon adopt similar regulations to ensure player safety. Case-by-case decisions by umpires could help prevent abuse. Merrifield suggests that severe infractions, such as hitting a batter in the head with a fastball, should lead to the pitcher’s immediate disqualification and salary deductions. In cases of serious injuries, like a broken wrist, at least a fine should be imposed. The discussion on the severity and type of sanctions parallels other sports like football or basketball, where rule changes have demonstrably led to safer play. If these proposed measures are not implemented, Merrifield fears severe accidents.