Manfred: Automatic runner rule in extras not on MLB's radar

If you're worried about runners starting at second base in extra-innings MLB games, you can stand down.

Commissioner Rob Manfred spoke on MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM on Thursday about the automatic runner rule, which is now a reality in all levels of Minor League Baseball, and why it won't be making its way to MLB.

"We do not see this as a rule that should be used in regular-season games at the major-league level," Manfred said.

The minors exist for developmental purposes, he added, and with pitch counts forever a hot topic in baseball, teams want to ensure extra-innings games aren't taxing arms and stretching out pitchers in ways that hinder their development.

Manfred said major-league teams have options that minor-league teams don't. For example, the New York Yankees can call up a pitcher from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after playing a game that goes deep into extras. Minor-league teams don't have that option, so it's imperative arms aren't being overused.

Here's the official rule:

At all levels of Minor League Baseball, extra innings will begin with a runner on second base. The runner at second base will be the player in the batting order position previous to the leadoff batter of the inning (or a substitute for that player). By way of example, if the number five hitter in the batting order is due to lead off the 10th inning, the number four player in the batting order (or a pinch-runner for such player) shall begin the inning on second base. Any runner or batter removed from the game for a substitute shall be ineligible to return to the game, as is the case in all circumstances under the Official Baseball Rules.