In attempt to hasten the pace of play, shorten games, increase action on the bases and offer a more visually familiar style of play, Major League Baseball is attempting multiple rule changes at once. The goal is a more athletic game with less stagnant time, and when the dust settles MLB hopes to see more steals, too.
SO LONG, SHIFT
Two infields must be positioned on either side of second base at the time a pitch is released, and all four infielders must have their feet on the dirt. This outlaws the overloaded shift that often would put a second baseman in shallow right field or three infielders on either side of the base.
