MLB Faces Drag Issues as Home Runs Hit Eight-Year Low

NEW YORK, NY — Major League Baseball is experiencing new inconsistencies with its baseballs, leading to concerns over performance this season. Reports indicate that fly balls are averaging four feet shorter than usual, contributing to a sharp decline in home runs, which have reached an eight-year low in full-time MLB ballparks.

According to MLB spokesperson Glen Caplin, the league has recognized the increased drag on the baseballs this season. In a statement to The Athletic, Caplin noted, “For the last several seasons, MLB has made drag information available to the public online, which is updated daily during the season.” He explained that while the league is aware of the changes, no intentional modifications have been made to the Rawlings baseballs.

Caplin emphasized, “There has been no change to the manufacturing, storage or handling of baseballs this year, and all baseballs remain within specifications.”

In closed-door meetings, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred reportedly acknowledged that the baseballs are performing differently this season. The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) is closely monitoring the situation. Kevin Slowey, MLBPA’s managing director of player services, mentioned, “The Players Association has been monitoring baseball behavior throughout the season, and recently reached out to the commissioner’s office to review available data and request additional information on a range of baseball measures.”

As players and officials seek answers, the impact of these changes on the game continues to unfold.