While we wait for the ink to dry on the mostly-agreed upon Collective Bargaining Agreement, one change will alter bullpen usage, at least slightly. A player "optioned" to the minor leagues for a sixth time in a season instead must be placed on waivers. While that will likely happen a few times in 2022, I doubt it happens that often.
As of today, Michael Rucker, Manny Rodriguez, Jonathan Holder, Eric Yardley and Locke St. John will be bustling for positions in Wrigley or the upper minors. While I doubt the goal is to rush anyone to the five-option mark, flattening the curve of the eligible players is a valid consideration.