Notes on Ridiculous MLB Rules

Introduction

• MLB has numerous confusing and peculiar rules.
• Some rules are considered outright ridiculous or have led to bizarre outcomes.

Umpire and Live Ball Rule

• If an umpire is hit by a live ball before it passes an infielder, the play is dead.
• Example: 2014 incident with Angel Hernandez that cost the Nationals a potential run.
• If the umpire is hit after the ball is fielded, the play continues.
• Consequence: Can lead to game-changing plays being nullified.

Pitcher Uniform Regulations

• Pitchers cannot pitch with distracting tattoos visible.
• Justin Miller's experience: Wore long sleeves due to complaints about his tattoos.
• MLB prohibits players from dressing up as women, a practice that was common for hazing purposes.

Rookie Hazing Policy

• MLB has a new policy prohibiting forcing players to dress in offensive costumes.
• 2004 incident: Kyle Denny was shot while dressed as a cheerleader, but his costume protected him from serious injury.

Ambidextrous Pitching Rule

• Pat Venditte was the only ambidextrous pitcher in MLB history, causing confusion with switch hitters.
• New rules implemented requiring pitchers to declare which arm they will pitch with before the at-bat.

Helmet Regulations

• MLB requires batters to wear helmets with ear flaps for safety.
• No specific rule on which side the ear flap must be worn.

Fortnite Ban

• Fortnite addiction became a problem in MLB clubhouses in 2018.
• Various teams implemented specific rules against playing video games during work hours, especially before games.

Social Media and Phone Usage

• Certain teams have specific rules against using phones during games or on social media while the game is happening.

Equipment Usage Rules

• Using detached equipment (like gloves or masks) to field a ball is illegal.
• Bizarre instances that led to game-changing calls based on this rule.

Ejections and Coach Behavior

• Ejected players can remain in the stadium as fans, provided they change out of uniform.
  • Example: Bobby Valentine used a disguise to stay in the game after being ejected.

Touching Home Plate Rule

• In rare cases, players don’t need to touch home plate to score.
  • Example: Chris Chambliss in 1976.

Cleat Regulations

• Players must wear cleats that feature at least 51% of their team's primary color.
• In 2019, MLB changed the rules to allow more flexibility in cleat styles.

Ban on Little People

• Originated from Eddie Goodell's pinch-hitting appearance in 1951.
• MLB voided his contract, thus establishing that little people cannot play in MLB due to perceived unfair advantages.

Fraternization Rule

• Players are forbidden from interacting with fans or opposing players while in uniform, seen as a gambling deterrent.
• Despite the rule, many players ignore it and continue to interact friendly with fans and each other.