American Association adding pitch clocks in 2023

Photo: American Association

November 18, 2022

Official American Association News Release

MOORHEAD, MINN. – The Board of Directors of the American Association of Professional Baseball, which includes the Winnipeg Goldeyes, has voted to institute pitch clocks as part of an effort to address pace of play.

The change is effective for the 2023 season.

The American Association pitch clocks will follow the same rules being instituted in Major League Baseball in 2023.

Pitchers will have 15 seconds to deliver a pitch with the bases empty, and will have 20 seconds to deliver a pitch with runners on base. The pitcher must begin his motion before the pitch clock expires or will be charged with an automatic ball.

Batters must be prepared to receive a pitch inside the batter’s box with at least eight seconds remaining or will be charged with an automatic strike. There will be a 30-second timer between batters.

Pitchers will be allowed to step off the rubber or attempt a pickoff move twice per batter. If a third attempt to pickoff a runner is unsuccessful, the runner automatically advances one base. The step off/pickoff limit resets if a runner or runners advance during the plate appearance.

“We believe a move to pitch clocks was a logical evolution based on the data gathered in affiliated baseball,” said American Association Commissioner Joshua Schaub. “As evidenced by the increased pace of play, and little to no effect on on-field play, the rousing success in Minor League Baseball can be duplicated in the American Association. The fan experience is first and foremost on our minds at all times, and our clubs are excited to begin instituting these new timers in their ballparks to provide the best fan experience.”

The American Association average game time in 2022 was three hours and 11 minutes (3:11), and has been on an upward trajectory for over a decade. Pitch clocks were used on a trial basis throughout Minor League Baseball in 2022, and resulted in average game times being reduced by 26 minutes.

Each American Association ballpark will be equipped with three Daktronics pitch clocks. Two will be located behind home plate. The third clock will be located in the outfield, with the exact outfield location determined by each club.