Getty Image / Mary DiCicco
Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred is not well-liked amongst many baseball fans, to say the least. Many do not like the changes made to the game of baseball under his watch, as well as some other issues that left fans with a sour taste.
Many would like Rob Manfred to resign from his commissioner post immediately. That’s not happening, but we do know when he will be stepping down.
Rob Manfred announced on Thursday that this five-year term as commissioner of Major League Baseball will be his last.
Rob Manfred said his tenure as Major League Baseball commissioner will end in early 2029.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 15, 2024
Yes, that means he still has his entire five years left this term as commissioner. Again, I’m sure many Major League Baseball fans were hoping he was announcing his immediate resignation. But, at least they know when it’s coming to an end.
The 65-year-old Manfred has been in his role since 2015, when he replaced longtime commissioner Bud Selig. Public opinion surrounding him was positive at the start. But, things started to change in the aftermath of the Houston Astros cheating scandal. Many felt that their World Series win in 2017 was tainted after it was revealed that they were using elaborate sign-stealing while hitting. When the league decided against stripping the Astros of their World Series title, Manfred referred to the Commissioner’s Trophy, given to the World Series winner, as a “hunk of metal”. Fans did not like that at all.
And, rule changes to the game, some implemented during the COVID season of 2020, have infuriated fans. Teams now start with a runner on 2nd base in extra innings, there’s a three-batter minimum for pitchers, and there is a pitch clock to speed up the game. Those are a few of the changes that some fans feel have cheapened a game steeped in tradition.
Those rules are likely here to stay, but Commissioner Manfred won’t be staying past 2029.