I don’t need the perfect game

The unpredictability of sport is what creates tension and the element of surprise; it’s what makes us as fans creep to the edge of our seat. How will automation disrupt the fan experience?

Disclaimer: Before we proceed it’s worth mentioning that as a fan of the game, please don’t assume that the opinion that follows is another old white baseball fan clinging to nostalgia using Substack to jump on my soapbox. No, far from it. I have adopted and adapted with the game I love. Some changes I like, some not so much.

I turned 60 last month. I was born into the game of baseball in the 1960s and 1970s when the game was played differently than the modern game. Baseball rules have changed and, as a result, the game’s strategy and performance have evolved.

I actually remember when the American League adopted the designated hitter (using this rare opportunity to name drop Ron Blomberg) followed by the adaptation to both leagues.

I do miss the game when pitchers also took a turn at bat. Why? I will give you an example: Tie game, 1-1. 7th inning. One out. Pitcher due up. He has been efficient on the mound, throwing 64 pitches. The circumstances call for a strategic managerial decision. Do you pinch hit or let the pitcher hit? Interesting, right?

Free agency soon followed and the game of baseball began changing at warp speed — both on and off the field. Expansion. Instant replay. Defensive shifts. Abbreviated doubleheaders. Pitching change limits. Mound visits. Pitch clocks.