Manfred Advocates for Incentives Over Mandates to Revitalize Starting Pitching

In a candid interview with Chris O'Gorman, Rob Manfred, the commissioner of Major League Baseball, shared his perspectives on the current state of starting pitching and the complexities surrounding player salary deferrals. As the league grapples with evolving player dynamics, Manfred emphasized the need for nuanced approaches rather than blunt mandates to revitalize the role of starting pitchers in games. Historically, baseball fans reminisced about the days when starting pitchers routinely went deep into games, a trend that has dwindled significantly in recent years, largely due to concerns over player injuries. Manfred expressed hesitation about implementing a rigid innings requirement, stating, “Just too blunt an instrument to fix this problem.” He believes instead in creating a series of incentives that would encourage teams to develop pitchers capable of lasting longer on the mound. “To me, this needs to be addressed in a more subtle way,” he added, suggesting that adjustments to transaction rules could encourage clubs to retain pitchers who can go deeper into games. In light of recent studies examining the increase in injuries among pitchers, particularly with the rising emphasis on velocity and spin rate, injury prevention remains a top priority for the league. Manfred revealed that MLB had conducted a comprehensive study involving over 200 interviews with various stakeholders in the sport, pointing to the need for a more balanced approach to training and development for pitchers. While the issue of starting pitcher longevity is multifaceted—spanning both health and aesthetic considerations—Manfred highlighted a parallel concern regarding salary deferrals, which have recently come under scrutiny. The Los Angeles Dodgers, notably, have been at the forefront of discussions due to their substantial deferred salary commitments, which total over $1 billion for several players, including star talents like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts. Manfred cautioned that while deferrals can be a useful financial tool, they may lead to significant problems if mismanaged, recalling how excessive deferrals had previously troubled the Arizona Diamondbacks. “The bigger the numbers get, the bigger the concern,” Manfred warned. He noted that the current collective bargaining agreement, which runs until December 2026, will dictate future discussions on salary structures and deferrals. Despite the Dodgers’ financial prowess, which allows them to benefit from deferred payments, rival teams have raised concerns that such practices could exacerbate disparities between wealthier franchises and those in smaller markets. Furthermore, Manfred addressed the relationship between the league and the MLB Players Association, downplaying the significance of offseason lockouts in comparison to the potential disruption of regular-season games. He maintained that the league has a constructive working relationship with the players, and emphasized the importance of ensuring that games continue uninterrupted. Looking ahead, Manfred’s focus seems to be on fostering an environment that promotes player health and enhances the overall appeal of the game. While the path to improving starting pitching may require innovative rule changes and a rethinking of financial practices, the commissioner remains optimistic about the future of baseball and its ability to adapt to both player and fan needs. As the league navigates these complex issues, it is clear that the conversation around starting pitchers and salary deferrals will remain a pivotal aspect of MLB's ongoing evolution, reflecting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in America’s pastime.