New Stolen Base Rules Revive Long-Lost Art of Base Stealing, But Not Without Debate
- Major League Baseball's rule changes to encourage stolen bases have led to a nearly 50% increase in steals so far this season.
- While some teams built on speed and aggression have readily taken advantage, others remain skeptical that baserunning will overtake power as an offensive priority.
- Despite the rise, baseball is unlikely to return to the era of 100-steal seasons, but the 20-steal player may become far more common.
- Early results show the rewards of stealing currently far outweigh the risks, with the league's success rate at an all-time high of over 80%.
- Executives around the league hold a range of views on whether the trend will continue, increase, or fade as pitchers and catchers adjust.