Discover Key MLB Playoff Rule Changes for 2025

Bassyonni

ago 3 hours

The Major League Baseball (MLB) postseason is currently ongoing, and this year introduces key rule changes for 2025. Understanding these changes is important for fans and players alike. The MLB postseason rules differ significantly from regular season rules. Here’s what you need to know.

Key MLB Playoff Rule Changes for 2025

Extra Innings Play

In postseason games, there will be a return to traditional baseball rules regarding extra innings. Unlike the regular season, where a “ghost runner” starts on second base in the 10th inning and beyond, the postseason will not use this rule. Consequently, if a game goes into extra innings, pitchers will start with no runners on base, potentially leading to longer games.

Managerial Challenges

Another significant change involves the number of challenges available to managers. Each skipper will have two challenges during each postseason game, compared to one in the regular season. If a challenge is successful and a call is overturned, the manager retains the challenge. However, if they do not win the challenge, they lose one.

Other Rules from Regular Season

All other rules from the regular season still apply during postseason play, including:

A 30-second timer between batters.
A 15-second timer between pitches when the bases are empty.
A 20-second timer between pitches when runners are on base.

Pitching Regulations

Pitchers will continue to be limited in their attempts to disengage from the pitcher’s plate. Each pitcher can make two disengagements per plate appearance, which reset if the runner advances. The three-batter minimum rule will also remain in effect. This rule mandates that pitchers must face at least three batters or finish a half-inning before being replaced.

Home-Field Advantage in the World Series

The team that wins its pennant with the better regular season record will secure home-field advantage in the World Series. In instances where both teams have identical records, a tiebreaker will be utilized to determine which team gets home-field advantage.

These adjustments in MLB postseason rules for 2025 are designed to enhance the viewing experience for fans. Understanding these changes will be essential for enjoying this unique time in baseball.