What is MLB’s ‘Golden at-bat’? Everything you need to know about Rob Manfred's potential rule change

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred is always looking for ways to improve the game. He made several rule changes that impacted how players play the game and how fans watch it.

While it took some getting used to, many of the recent rule changes from 2023 have been great. Fans see a more sped-up version of the game and the increased number of steals.

Now, Manfred has another idea he has teased to the public. The idea is called the "Golden at-bat rule," and it would change the game more drastically than any of the recent rule changes.

Simply put, a team can choose one at-bat in each game to send their best hitter to the plate. It means fans could potentially see a player like Shohei Ohtani coming up to bat in the biggest spot of the game.

Manfred said on "The Varsity Project" that the potential rule change was creating some buzz. Now that it's out in the open, baseball fans can voice their opinion.

---

Rob Manfred's potential rule change could change the game forever

MLB: World Series - Rob Manfred (Photo via IMAGN)

It took a while for both MLB players and fans to get used to the rules changes during the 2023 season. The pitch clock especially frustrated pitchers who weren't used to working so quickly.

It was also something fans weren't sure they wanted to see. However, when pitchers got the hang of it, many fans appreciated the sped-up gameplay.

The "Golden at-bat rule" may not be something that takes too long for fans to get behind. Many want to see players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani at the plate during the game's most intense moments. This would allow for just that to happen on a daily basis.