Tuesday night’s Midsummer Classic ended with fireworks—and a fresh debate.
Each week during the season, CBS Sports’ MLB experts gather for Batting Around, a roundtable where they break down the latest headlines, dive into historical debates, and explore the future of baseball. This week, they’re discussing the swing-off tiebreaker that thrilled fans at the All-Star Game—and whether it deserves a spot in regular-season play.
Should MLB implement a swing-off to settle extra-inning games?
Matt Snyder: I don’t think it should be used right away in the 10th inning, but I see a case for replacing the runner-on-second rule by then. Maybe bring in a swing-off by the 12th inning. Purists may hate it, but in today’s game—with so many pitcher injuries—we need a realistic way to end games. Personally, I’m okay sticking with the current setup, but I’d be open to a swing-off after a few extra innings.
R.J. Anderson: I’d be fine with it starting in the 12th or later. I actually like how extra innings work now, and I’m not sure the swing-off would maintain its appeal once the novelty fades. Still, pitcher health is a valid concern, and that makes it worth considering.
Mike Axisa: No thanks—keep it as an All-Star Game exclusive. There’s about one extra-innings game every 11 games league-wide, so it’s not a huge issue. What made the All-Star swing-off fun was its spontaneity, and that’s not something you can manufacture. Sure, it’s more exciting than the automatic runner, but I’d rather let real baseball players decide the outcome—not the first base coach lobbing BP. Tuesday’s moment was special. Let’s keep it that way and avoid turning baseball into a shootout.
