Rob Manfred: MLB Has Discussed Shortening Schedule & Adding In-Season Tournament

Major League Baseball has introduced several new rule changes over the years, including the addition of a pitch clock, shift restrictions and ghost runner in extra innings.

The league is now set to implement the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) Challenge System on a regular basis in 2026, which should have a huge impact on the sport.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has continued to search for ways to improve the game and has floated the idea of shortening the 162-game regular season schedule on several occasions.

That remains a possibility along with potentially adding an in-season tournament similar to the NBA, via Chad Jennings, Andy McCullough and Sam Blum of The Athletic:

Manfred floated the possibility again this week, saying in a radio interview that the league has “talked about” splitting the season, adding an in-season tournament, and potentially cutting back on regular-season games.

Manfred acknowledged that any such changes to the regular season schedule are more difficult to pull off than other sports leagues:

“It is a much more complicated thing in our sport than it is in other sports,” Manfred said.

Players have long been in favor of a shorter schedule as it would take some of the wear and tear off them and create more opportunities to see their families.

One potential drawback, however, is that individual statistics over a 162-game season may be viewed differently if the league moves forward with a reduced schedule.

As for an in-season tournament, it remains unclear how one would look in baseball since teams play series and not single games.

An in-season tournament nevertheless could help bring in more revenue for the league and players, so both sides may be motivated to figure out the logistics.

Rob Manfred reiterates plans to retire after contract expires

Manfred previously announced that he anticipates stepping down as MLB commissioner when his contract expires in January 2029, and he recently reiterated those plans.