Is MLB's pitch clock leading to better defense? Some players and coaches think so
Associated Press
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FILE - The pitch clock ticks down in the top of the ninth in a baseball game between the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, April 2, 2023. Major League Baseball's pitch clock has made games go faster, but players and coaches believe it also is leading to better fielding. The pitch clock, an idea meant to make it easier for fans to stay focused on the field may be keeping fielders locked in, too. (AP Photo/Emil T. Lippe, File)FILE - Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell looks on before a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Saturday, April 1, 2023, in Chicago. Major League Baseball's pitch clock has made games go faster, but players and coaches believe it also is leading to better fielding. Milwaukee manager Craig Counsell said the lengthy delays between pitches in previous seasons could make it tough for fielders to maintain their focus. (AP Photo/Quinn Harris, File)The pitch clock is seen as Minnesota Twins' Alex Kirilloff, stands for an at-bat against Baltimore Orioles during the first inning of a baseball game, Saturday, July 1, 2023, in Baltimore. Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman, bottom right, and home plate umpire Andy Fletcher look on. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)FILE - The pitch clock counts down as Pittsburgh Pirates' Carlos Santana (41) waits for a pitch from Houston Astros starting pitcher Jose Urquidy during the first inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Wednesday, April 12, 2023. Major League Baseball's pitch clock has made games go faster, but players and coaches believe it also is leading to better fielding. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)The pitch clock is seen as Minnesota Twins' Max Kepler takes an at-bat during the second inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Saturday, July 1, 2023, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
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FILE - The pitch clock ticks down in the top of the ninth in a baseball game between the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, April 2, 2023. Major League Baseball's pitch clock has made games go faster, but players and coaches believe it also is leading to better fielding. The pitch clock, an idea meant to make it easier for fans to stay focused on the field may be keeping fielders locked in, too. (AP Photo/Emil T. Lippe, File)