MLB’s first extra-innings game under new rules produced a walkoff grand slam

The new rules for extra-innings games seem to be working as intended.

The MLB has made several changes to the game for the 2020 season, from the new expanded playoffs system, to the adoption of a universal designated hitter, to a new extra-innings format designed to prevent games from stretching on for too long. On the second day of the season, fans got to see what the new extra-innings rule looks like in practice – and it produced a highlight-reel finish.

In 2020, each half of an extra inning will begin with a runner on second base. With the Angels and A’s tied 3-3 after 9 in Oakland, Los Angeles was unable to drive in Shohei Ohtani from second base, handing the advantage back to the A’s.

Los Angeles pitcher Hansel Robles had a nightmare frame, with a hit batter, a wild pitch and a walk to load the bases. Robles was replaced on the mound by Hoby Milner – who threw just one pitch. Matt Olson smashed Milner’s first-pitch 77-mph curveball into the right field seats to win the game.

 

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