MLB broadcasters adapting to faster pace under new rules
March 29, 2023 -Major league pitchers and batters aren’t the only ones going on the clock this season — big league broadcasters have also been using spring training to adjust to baseball’s new rhythm amid a series of rules changes.
When the season opens Thursday, Major League Baseball will usher in an age of sharper, quicker and more concise commentary.
For a generation of play-by-play pros who grew up idolizing loquacious storytellers like Hall of Famer Vin Scully, it’s been an adjustment — but not necessarily an unwelcome one.
“It’s been one of the most enjoyable spring trainings I’ve had in a long time,” said Greg Brown, who is in his 30th season calling Pittsburgh Pirates games on radio and television. “I think over the years I’ve been critical of a lot of things Major League Baseball has done, but in this case, I think they’ve got it right.”
With only 30 seconds between batters and 15-20 seconds between pitches, announcers have had to learn where to focus their view between pitches so they don’t miss anything.
