Will the new pitch clock rules be used in the World Baseball Classic?

If you were wondering whether the new pitch clock rules would be used in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, we are sorry to inform you that it is not going to happen. Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred announced that the pitch clock will be utilized in the 2023 MLB season but not in the World Baseball Classic '23.

"There's going to be an adjustment and learning curve to those, so for the actual quality of baseball in the WBC, it's probably better that they didn't spring that on us in important games. If something happened in an elimination game that we weren't prepared for, that could have a negative effect.

We're going to need a learning curve with those and we won't get it for a few weeks, but we'll work on it in spring training and other times" - Paul Goldschmidt of Team USA with his opinions on the new rules and WBC '23

During a first-round game, a pitcher is only allowed to throw 65 pitches; in the quarterfinals, 80; and in the championship round, 95, although a limit may be exceeded to complete a plate appearance. A pitcher is not permitted to take the mound for three consecutive days.

“I feel like the hype is a little bit higher this time around than it was in 2017. There’s more guys that want to do it, I know it’s not the World Cup, but just watching the World Cup and how awesome that was just to represent your country ... I don’t know if it will get quite there, but get it close at least” - Nolan Arenado (Team USA)

The New pitch clock rule to be not used in the World Baseball Classic 2023

There won't be a mound visit limit, but there will be other MLB-style rules in effect, including a designated hitter, a three-batter minimum, and a video review. The contentious extra-innings rule, referred to as the "Ghost Runner" in the media, will be applied in the World Baseball Classic. This would mean that each inning after the ninth will begin with the player making the last out.

"Nolan Arenado is ready to represent Team USA again" - WBCBaseball

This is a setback for fans, but not as much for players. A mercy rule in effect for the World Baseball Classic will allow the umpire to halt play if a team leads by 15 runs or more after the fifth inning or by 10 runs or more after the seventh. There is a distinct energy surrounding international baseball, and players and fans alike are eager to support their nation.