Kevin Gausman Critiques MLB's Manfred on Pitching Rules

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman publicly criticized MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's recent remarks on improving the sport's marketing through starting pitchers. Gausman urged fans not to trust Manfred's comments, suggesting that the proposed changes will lead to absurd outcomes, such as fans taking the place of underperforming pitchers. Manfred argued against a minimum innings requirement, calling it 'too blunt an instrument' and emphasized the need for rules that incentivize teams to develop pitchers capable of lasting longer in games. He acknowledged the decline in innings pitched by starters, attributing the issue partly to increased injuries linked to the focus on velocity and spin rate. Gausman's outburst reflects broader discontent among players regarding Manfred's rule changes, including the pitch clock and universal DH. The ongoing tension highlights the challenge MLB faces in balancing player health with marketing needs.