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Phillies star Bryce Harper shares thoughts on pitch clock
Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper. Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Phillies star Bryce Harper shares thoughts on pitch clock

While being interviewed by ESPN broadcasters Karl Ravech, David Cone and Eduardo Pérez during Sunday Night Baseball, Phillies star Bryce Harper said a lot of MLB players "want our game back."

“I know a lot of players that want our game back, right? But as of right now, it is what it is," Harper said, via Crossing Broad.

When asked later in the interview to clarify those comments, Harper wasn't interested in doing so.

This offseason, the MLB has implemented a pitch clock in attempt to limit in-game delays and speed up the time of games. If the pitcher does not deliver a pitch by the time the pitch clock expires, the batter receives an automatic ball. If a batter does not engage with the pitcher in time, the pitcher will receive an automatic strike.

Along with the pitch clock, the league also placed restrictions on defensive alignment and shifting. Teams are not allowed to have a defender directly behind the second base bag or more than two players on either side of second base.

MLB fans have been largely split on baseball’s new shake up, some saying it changes the history of the game while others say it speeds up the game and keeps viewers engaged with a quicker pace of play.

Harper’s comments are the most polarizing so far from an active MLB player regarding the new rules. 

When Ravech asked Harper a follow up question regarding his comments on baseball’s new rules, Harper said he didn’t remember what he said, causing the three broadcasters to bust out into laughter.

Harper, who is currently on the injured list after offseason Tommy John surgery, said the new rules will take time to get used to while preparing to get back to the lineup.

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