The recent showdown between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays has reignited the debate over the use of the ghost runner rule in postseason baseball. This discussion comes on the heels of a significant game that saw the Dodgers secure a tight victory in the 18th inning.
Postseason Tensions Rise: Dodgers vs. Blue Jays
In a dramatic matchup, the Dodgers triumphed over the Blue Jays 6-5, thanks to a home run by Freddie Freeman in the 18th inning. This victory granted Los Angeles a two games to one lead in their best-of-seven series.
Usage of the Ghost Runner Rule
As the game extended into the late innings, both managers contemplated the possibility of having to utilize a position player as a pitcher—a rarity in such crucial games. They expressed their hesitations about the ghost runner rule, which places a runner on second base at the start of each extra inning.
- In the 2023 season, 209 extra-inning games were played, with none extending past 13 innings.
- The longest game under the ghost runner rule occurred on August 25, 2021, when the Dodgers defeated San Diego in 16 innings.
Comments from the Managers
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of traditional baseball in postseason play. He stated, “Baseball in its truest form…is about the battle of attrition with pitching.” Meanwhile, Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed mixed feelings about the ghost runner’s role in the playoffs, citing his traditionalist views.
Schneider remarked, “It’s unique because you play a certain way for 162 games, and then that goes away.” He suggested that teams must adjust their rosters to prepare for such extended games.
Pitching Strategies and Player Fatigue
During the intense game, Dodgers pitcher Will Klein made history as the Series-record tenth pitcher for his team, pitching four innings with a staggering 72 pitches. Yoshinobu Yamamoto was on standby to pitch in the 19th inning following a successful Game 2.
If Yamamoto hadn’t been available, the Dodgers may have turned to Miguel Rojas, a second baseman who has pitched intermittently during the season.
For the Blue Jays, Brendon Little stepped in during the 17th inning, while Shane Bieber, the expected starter for Game 4, was also prepared to pitch if needed.
Blue Jays rookie Trey Yesavage was slated to pitch in Game 5, marking his likely role before considering a position player.
Conclusion
The ongoing debate over the ghost runner rule highlights differing philosophies in baseball management. As the postseason progresses, how teams adapt to these challenges will shape their paths to potential victory.
