MLB is Making Baseball Fundamentals Relics of the Past by Phil Mushnick

In a scathing critique of the current state of Major League Baseball, syndicated columnist Phil Mushnick has highlighted the alarming trend of fundamental winning skills being neglected in the sport. In his recent article, Mushnick laments the lack of emphasis on basic skills that are essential for success on the field.

Mushnick points out that the game of baseball has been suffering from a sustained epidemic of diminished standards, with players and managers seemingly unwilling to do whatever it takes to win. He cites examples from recent games, such as the Cleveland Guardians’ Josh Naylor failing to slide home beneath a tag in a crucial play, and the Pittsburgh Pirates making costly baserunning errors that ultimately led to their defeat.

The columnist also raises concerns about the impact of modern strategies on pitchers, noting that many high-priced pitchers are being lost to injuries due to strict pitch counts and reliance on short-term relievers. He highlights cases of young pitchers like Spencer Strider and Bobby Miller being sidelined with injuries, questioning the wisdom of limiting their innings and pushing them to throw harder in shorter stints.

Mushnick’s article serves as a wake-up call to the baseball community, urging a return to the fundamentals of the game and a focus on developing well-rounded players who can contribute to their teams’ success. As the sport continues to evolve, Mushnick warns against sacrificing winning strategies in favor of short-term gains, emphasizing the importance of sound fundamentals in achieving long-term success in Major League Baseball.