MLB reportedly close to restoring extra-inning ghost-runner rule for 2022 season

While it was learned that MLB and the MLB Players Association finally came to an agreement last week that ended the lockout, there remained questions about numerous aspects of the upcoming season. For example, it's been unclear what health and safety protocols may be embraced at a time when COVID-19 vaccines are available as variants such as Omicron continue to threaten schedules throughout the sports world. 

The Athletic's Jayson Stark and Matt Gelb offered some clarity on Monday when they reported the so-called "ghost-runner rule" that involves a runner beginning each half of an extra inning on second base could be restored sooner than later. 

"Several players said they expect the rule to be enacted once the protocols are announced in the next 24 to 48 hours," they explained. 

The controversial rule that, at best, has been polarizing among MLB fans was used in each of the past two seasons as the league hoped to prevent COVID-19 spread among opposing players by limiting their interactions inside ballparks. Stark and Gelb report that "players heavily support" keeping the rule moving forward but that negotiations on the subject are ongoing. 

"We can appreciate the tradition," a veteran pitcher told The Athletic via a text message sent Monday. "But I think it has worked. Games end sooner and in an exciting way. No more 18-inning games where guys get hurt or it kills your team for a week or two. Or a guy gets sent down for throwing four great innings in relief, but you need a warm body for tomorrow."

Stark and Gelb add ghost runners may not be used until the 11th or 12 innings of future games.

For better or for worse, depending on one's opinion, big-league baseball is unquestionably changing in multiple noteworthy ways coming off this latest work stoppage.