by Wayne
(Michigan)
Hi, I wonder why definitions of the height of the outfield wall, the width of foul territory, or the actual curve of the outfield wall are all absent from the mlb baseball rule book. Doesn’t it change the outcome of single plays, entire games, or even an individual’s career. For example in football, soccer and basketball, the playground is defined and in every stadium the same. In these sports, the performance of the teams determine the winner and not things around them. What is different in baseball?
Why are there are no definitions?
Thx for reading and responding.
COACH HENZE’S ANSWER
Thanks for the question Wayne!
I guess I don’t know the exact reason why there aren’t rules governing the height of a baseball field fence, the width of foul-territory or how deep the dimensions are on a baseball field… However, in my opinion, I love the fact that different baseball fields have different dimensions!
I think it is great that some teams have great home-field advantages. Boston players should know how to play the ball off the monster in left field which gives them a great advantage. Boston can also develop their team with left handed pull hitters in order to take advantage of Pesky’s Pole in right field.
This is a great topic and one that I would love to hear more from our visitors!
YOUR THOUGHTS?
Other than the two Fenway Park nuances listed above, what other advantages do home teams have in the Major Leagues? What are your thoughts about Wayne’s question above? Do you think all fields should have the SAME dimenstions?