Major League Baseball owners had their annual meetings today, and a big topic of discussion was the installation of instant replay in baseball starting in 2014. According to Ken Rosenthal, the owners approved funding for instant replay.
Owners approve funding for replay expansion next season. Approval of players' and umpires' union fully expected.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 14, 2013
The next steps will be for the union and the umpires to approve of the addition of instant replay, although Rosenthal says that shouldn’t be an issue. It remains to be seen what the specific rules will be for replay. Some of the proposed rules have been talked about, but I’d imagine the finalized version will come out soon now that replay is almost official.
UPDATE 12:27 PM: Rosenthal says that it will be two challenges per game, with no distinction on innings.
Maximum two manager's challenges per team per game. No distinction on innings. It's two per game.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 14, 2013
Previously we had heard that MLB would have three challenges, with one allowed in the first six innings, and two allowed in the final three innings. That system made no sense, and it’s good to see a change. No word yet on whether the limit of two means they get two challenges, or two incorrect challenges.
Rosenthal also says that fans can expect in-game replay on the scoreboard, which is something James Santelli reported as a possibility back in September.
Rob Manfred said fans can expect expanded in-game video on stadium boards in conjunction with expanded replay.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 14, 2013
