Should We Like Rob Manfred?
Should We Like Rob Manfred?
Don't Attack Me
Editors Note: This does not mean I love Rob Manfred. However, it is important to attempt to look at both sides. Feel free to attack me.
Last week's announcement of Rob Manfred stepping down as Commissioner of MLB in 2029 sparked a wave of reactions on social media platforms like Twitter. Known for his nearly decade-long tenure, Manfred has been a polarizing figure among baseball fans, many of whom have openly criticized his leadership. However, a recent comment by Manfred about imposing a deadline on free agency—to avoid having top free agents still on the market by the start of Spring Training—caught my attention. This proposal, interestingly, aligns with the sentiments expressed by a significant portion of the fanbase this year, who have expressed frustration over high-profile players like Snell, Montgomery, and Bellinger remaining unsigned.
Ironically, despite this move potentially addressing a widespread concern, Manfred faced backlash from the very fans who had been demanding such a change. This piqued my interest and inspired me to delve deeper into Manfred's impact on baseball, focusing on his accomplishments and the challenges he navigated as commissioner.
Attendance and Viewership
Manfred's tenure began in 2015, following a period of declining MLB attendance post-2008—a downturn largely attributed to the economic recession. Under his leadership, the league faced unprecedented challenges, including the rise of streaming and cord-cutting, which significantly impacted traditional viewership, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily halted in-person attendance.
Despite these hurdles, MLB has seen a resurgence in attendance, nearing pre-pandemic levels, and an increase in local viewership in various markets. However, national viewership and World Series ratings have not fared as well, with the recent World Series being the least watched in history. It's essential to contextualize these figures within the broader trend of declining primetime TV viewership, which has seen a reduction of approximately 40 million viewers over the past two decades. The way the youth take in their entertainment has changed drastically.
Under Manfred, MLB has embraced the digital age, with MLB TV reaching a record 12.7 billion minutes watched in 2023. This shift towards streaming platforms, including partnerships with companies like Apple, signifies a critical adaptation to changing consumer behaviors.
Rule Changes
Manfred's era has been marked by significant rule changes aimed at improving the game's pace and appeal:
Shortening game duration
Increasing base size
Eliminating the shift
Introducing the designated hitter in the National League
Expanding the postseason
Implementing lottery rules to discourage tanking
Enhancing player safety on slides
Limiting pitcher disengagements
Mandating that pitchers face a minimum of three batters
These adjustments have not only altered how the game is played but have generally been well-received, contributing to a more dynamic and engaging sport.
Expanding the Game Globally
Under Manfred, MLB has made considerable strides in international expansion, highlighted by the success of the World Baseball Classic (WBC). The tournament has seen record-breaking viewership and attendance, with the last edition arguably outshining the 2023 MLB playoffs in terms of entertainment value. Additionally, the increase in international players on MLB rosters underlines the league's growing global influence.
Rob Manfred's tenure as MLB Commissioner has been complex and multifaceted. Despite facing criticism, his leadership has overseen significant changes aimed at modernizing the sport and expanding its global reach. I actually believe when it is all said and done, we will look back and view him as a good commissioner.
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