Chicago Cubs: Minor League pace-of-play changes loom large

Okay, this one really makes sense – kind of

If you’re going to limit Major League teams to six mound visits, there’s no reason you don’t carry over that guideline to Minor League clubs, as well. That doesn’t mean I think it makes sense – in fact, I think the opposite. But a uniform approach is logical.

In my line of thinking, I want catchers, pitchers and managers on the same page. Why? Because I think it leads to a higher quality product on the field. Now, there is no reason Willson Contreras needs multiple mound visits in one batter to get on the same page with guys. You’ve got me there. But I still think the communication piece is key here.

Could we see technology more integrated into the game to allow communication between dugouts and the catcher? We’ve heard so much about an automated strike zone already that I wouldn’t rule it out. Of course, replay has grown exponentially in recent years, which leads me to think the league is at least open to these types of ideas. But who knows.

Next: Good or bad, pump the brakes on spring performance hype

All told, it’ll be interesting to see how this plays out. But, above all else, these moves seem guaranteed to do one thing: irritate the ever-loving h*ll out of the union. As if this winter’s free agency hadn’t already done that enough.