Rob Manfred is somehow still MLB commissioner, despite his follies as pro sports including baseball try to return from the world’s health crisis. Out of America’s four major sports leagues, many believe he is the most inept at his job.
However, Manfred still plods on and creates problems everywhere he turns. Under his reign, viewing figures have declined, and players earn less money while owners fatten their purses. Overall, it’s not sustainable. With the recent health crisis, things have worsened, in part because of MLB’s disastrous restart ‘plan.’ Let’s take a look at 20 of Manfred’s worst mistakes and reasons why he needs to leave the commissioner’s office immediately. His contract ends in 2024. Baseball might not survive until then.
20. Pitch Clock
Manfred wants to speed up baseball but refuses to do it the right way. He won’t consult the players or fans but instead shoves rules down their throats. For example, he seems intent on bringing in the pitch clock even though nobody really wants it.
Baseball has experimented with pitch clocks in the minor leagues for years. In short, the 20-second timer begins when the pitcher receives the throw from the catcher. MLB implemented it during the 2019 spring training. Manfred insists he has the right to unilaterally impose a pitch clock for the regular season.