As Major League Baseball (MLB) continues to evolve its rules to enhance the game’s appeal, the league is now considering a bold new idea: a mandatory six-inning minimum for starting pitchers. This potential change aims to restore the prominence of starting pitchers, reduce pitching injuries, and increase the overall action in games.

In recent years, the average length of a starting pitcher’s outing has decreased, with starters averaging just over five innings per game in 2024, down from nearly six innings a decade ago. MLB officials believe that requiring starters to pitch at least six innings could bring back the days when aces dominated the mound for most of the game. However, exceptions would be necessary, such as allowing pitchers to exit early if they reach 100 pitches, give up four or more earned runs, or suffer an injury.

The league’s goal is to prioritize command and efficiency over sheer velocity, potentially reducing the strain on pitchers’ arms and lowering the incidence of injuries. Executives and coaches around the league agree that this change could lead to a shift in how pitchers are developed, emphasizing stamina and strategy over overpowering stuff.

Though the rule is still in the discussion phase, the concept has sparked debate within the baseball community. Some suggest that a more gradual approach, like increasing relievers’ minimum batter requirements, might be a better first step. Nonetheless, MLB has shown its willingness to implement significant changes for the betterment of the game, as seen with recent rule adjustments like the pitch clock and shift ban.

If implemented, the six-inning rule could dramatically alter how teams manage their pitching staffs, forcing them to rethink their strategies and player development from the ground up.