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MLB experiments with outfield positioning restrictions in the Arizona Fall League

The Arizona Fall League is serving as MLB’s latest testing ground for potential rule changes, this time experimenting with restricted outfield positioning for corner outfielders. According to reports, the league is requiring players to stay within a set distance of the foul lines while playing shallow, mirroring the shift restrictions implemented for infielders in 2023.

The move comes as part of MLB’s ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving offensive trends, particularly the rise in strikeouts, though the league has yet to see a clear impact from similar changes in the major leagues. Meanwhile, teams like the Detroit Tigers are using the league to develop prospects like Bryce Rainer, Zyhir Hope, and Jalen Evans, with weekly updates expected throughout the five-week schedule.

The Fall League has historically been a proving ground for rule experiments, including the pitch clock and the elimination of extreme infield shifts, before broader implementation in the majors.

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