NEW YORK – Implementing a pitch clock at all the levels in the minor leagues has been hailed as a success, shortening games by 30 minutes, but there might be some backlash if it’s enforced in the Major Leagues next year.
In the minor leagues, pitchers have 14 seconds to deliver a pitch (18 or 19 seconds with a runner on base). Hitters must be ready to hit with nine seconds on the pitch clock. If a pitcher takes too long, it’s an automatic ball. If a hitter isn’t in the batter’s box on time, he’s charged with a strike.