Changes Are A Coming

So in a break from historical precedent, baseball is attempting to be proactive.  With the NFL and NBA in the midst of lockouts, the MLBPA and owners are already discussing a new collective bargaining agreement to avoid the same situation.  The most stunning development is the idea of major changes in the way baseball is structured.  Currently the sport has one league of 16 teams and one league of 14 teams with three divisions in each league and four teams qualifying for the postseason in each league.   In the most discussed proposal, baseball would change to two 15 team leagues and no divisions with five teams making the postseason in each league.  The biggest effect of this change would be a balanced schedule, where each team would play the other teams in its' league an equal number of times.  Considering under either system there are wild card teams making the playoffs, a balanced schedule only makes sense.  With the division set-up, it's entirely possible to see the third best team in the league also be the third best team in it's division and be left at home.  By playing each team an equal number of times and only having one league, it will pretty much guarantee the five best teams always make the playoffs.  The only hangup on it being a 100% guarantee is that there will still be interleague play, and that will never be balanced due to the "rivalry" games.  In all honesty, since baseball is making changes, I think it's time to do away with interleague games and also contract by two teams.  Choosing two teams is pretty simple too, just eliminate the Marlins and the Rays.  Florida is meant for spring training baseball, not summer baseball.  I realize the Marlins have two world championships, but those are also the only two years they have been competitive.  And while the Rays have been quite good the last few years, they still get nobody to come to their games.  Last season was the highest the Rays have ranked in attendance, and that was 22nd in the league.  It's obvious the people in the Tampa Bay region don't care, so why should the rest of us.  Imagine how much better of a game baseball would be with two less organizations diluting the talent.  I realize this is asking way too much, but at least baseball is considering major changes.  A sport that is too often criticized for being traditional is the only sport that seems to entertain and embrace the idea of major changes.  Hopefully we will see some more in the next couple of years. 

Normally I end with picks, and of course, winning picks, but with baseball the only sport going on, it's a bit tough.  So if you are interested in my picks, check my twitter page for my winners.  You can find me at vegasobie on twitter.  But remember, never bet what you cant afford to lose.