Can MLB truly stop pitchers from using foreign substances?

MLB has a problem on its hands that is, unfortunately, not new to the game. The league is trying to get pitchers to stop using substances on the mound to enhance their pitches.

Modern technology tracking spin rates has made the problem more evident than ever. However, this is nothing new and pitchers have been using substances since the game began. ESPN recently ran a story explaining how the league is about to send out a memo detailing the new rules against pitchers cheating.

It is still not clear if suspensions will take place, or if the league just wants to shame players. That shame did nothing to slow down the Houston Astros, so the league may have to come down a bit harsher with this.

MLB trying to stop a common practice

MLB seems to be a reactionary league far too often. Oh, there was a quick bunch of no-hitters thrown this season? Thus, it is time to crack down on pitchers.

The difference now is the use of the substance known as Spider Tack. Pitchers have moved past simple pine tar and sunscreen to something that is allowing for unnatural pitches to be thrown.

There is just no way for pitchers to hide at this point. Computers will tattle on them if their pitches take a huge jump in spin rate from one start to the next. Playing dumb won’t help solve anything, and the ESPN article also pointed out how umpires will be doing random checks throughout the game.

MLB is no stranger to cheating. But it is fair to say enough is enough and start to enforce rules at some point. Otherwise, the games won’t be fun to watch if batters are just up there flailing at the plate because the pitchers have a truly unfair advantage.

So while MLB cannot stop the concept of cheating form taking place, taking steps like this does not hurt at all.