MLB Pitch Clock Rules

In 2023, Major League Baseball (MLB) implemented several new rules, one of which is the pitch clock. The pitch clock is a timer between pitches that counts down from 15, 20, or 30 seconds to ensure the game keeps on pace. Read on to learn more about the pitch clock rules in the MLB for both pitchers and hitters.

Pitch Clock Rules

In between pitches, the pitch clock will count down from either 15, 20, or 30 seconds, depending on whether there are runners on base and whether there is a change of batters.

If a pitcher fails to start their pitching motion before the pitch clock runs out, the umpire will call an automatic ball. This rule was put in place to speed up the game, as pitchers have historically taken much more time between pitches.

15-Second Pitch Clock

The pitch clock will be 15 seconds in between pitches when there are no runners on base.

20-Second Pitch Clock

The pitch clock will be 20 seconds in between pitches when there are runners on base, giving pitchers a chance to monitor and successfully pick off runners.

30-Second Pitch Clock

The pitch clock will be 30 seconds in between batters to allow time for the batter to reach the plate from the dugout.

Batters Pitch Clock Rule

In between pitches, the batter is required to assume their position in the batter’s box and be alert to the pitcher by the time there is eight seconds left on the pitch clock. An automatic strike will be called if the batter does not assume their position in the box and become alert to the pitcher by the time the pitch clock passes the eight-second mark. However, batters are still allowed to call time during an at-bat.

MLB Pitch Clock Rules Summary

• The pitch clock runs between pitches, limiting the amount of time a pitcher has to throw the next pitch.
• If there are no runners on base, the pitch clock will count down from 15 seconds between pitches.
• If there are runners on base, the pitch clock will count down from 20 seconds between pitches, allowing extra time for pitchers to monitor runners on base.
• The pitch clock will count down from 30 seconds between batters.
• The batter must be in the batter’s box and alert to the pitcher with eight seconds or more remaining on the pitch clock.
• If a pitcher fails to start their pitching motion by the time the pitch clock has run out, the umpire will call an automatic ball.
• If the batter fails to be in the batter’s box and alert to the pitcher with less than eight seconds left on the pitch clock, the umpire will call an automatic strike.

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