MLB probably didn't consider this when they thought about enforcing the pitch clock rule this season. On the day Spring Training games start for most teams, one game ended with a pitch clock violation.

It happened during Saturday's matchup between the Boston Red Sox and the Atlanta Braves. The bases were loaded with two outs and tied in the bottom ninth when Cal Conley stepped into the box (kind of). He worked the count full and was called for a pitch clock violation for not being ready, which ended the game.

Tie game. Ninth inning. Bases loaded. Full count.Game ends on a clock violation by the hitter https://t.co/h9PgMzB516

This is the epitome of the rules falling flat. While it is Spring Training and ties are a regular part of it, a game cannot end like this. This is the last thing fans want to see.

This has already happened in a game that matters. Louisiana State University beat Kansas State University on Friday night, with the game ending on a pitch clock violation.

Here's how fans reacted to the disappointing end to the game:

@JomboyMedia This is so pathetic. Not baseball
@JomboyMedia What a farce.
@JomboyMedia This is trash. I’m not really interested in a shorter game if this is how they end. The pitcher was not set, the catcher was standing adjusting his gear, and the batter was in the box. With the pitcher and catcher not ready, how can a batter being alert to a pitcher who’s not… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
@JomboyMedia Why does it seem every big sport inthe world is actively trying to ruin the game. It's happening in soccer with V.A.R, the NBA with resting players and now MLB. Even the ump looked embarrassed calling that. Smh

MLB fans are tired of seeing their favorite sport change the rules to accommodate new fans. They think these changes are ruining the game that they know and love. It's not just baseball, either. Other sports have been adamant about trying new things to reach new fans.

@JomboyMedia There needs to be a different timer for big situations like this
@JomboyMedia Can’t let big moments build up anymore, disaster
@JomboyMedia Yeah, hate this rule already
@JomboyMedia Every year it's something new but this rule is literally ruining the game and I don't think anyone can deny that

One thing all fans can agree on is that baseball games cannot end in a pitch clock violation.

It's going to take a bit for MLB players to get used to these new rules

Seattle Mariners v San Diego Padres
Seattle Mariners v San Diego Padres

It will likely take the majority of Spring Training for players, coaches, and umpires to get used to the new rules. Fans will probably see a ton of pitch clock violations both by the pitcher and batter. It's tough to spend your whole life playing the game a certain way and changing when you reach the highest level.

These rules were implemented to speed up the game and make it more entertaining and safer. While it makes baseball look slightly different, it's still the same sport. Once everyone gets used to these new rules, most MLB fans won't notice they were put in place.

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Edited by Piyush Bisht
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