Over the last few weeks, we’ve heard how MLB is introducing a slate of new rules in the 2023 season, from bigger base sizes to shift restrictions to the institution of a pitch clock, as well as codifying recent rules changes including the automatic runner in extra innings. One aspect that I think caught many by surprise was the revelation that the league would be cracking down on balks and illegal pitches, prompting many to wonder how some of the pitchers with the most unique deliveries would be affected.
Of course, our minds immediately turned to Nestor Cortes.