Does MLB use the placed runner system in playoff extra innings?
It looks like if MLB players learned how to bunt again, the placed runner system wouldn’t have the intended effect. Back when most players knew how to bunt, the first batter of the inning would definitely bunt in the placed runner system just about every time. That would lead to the placed runner scoring probably just about every extra inning. It’s already almost automatic that the placed runner scores. If MLB counteracted that by not allowing the first batter to bunt, how would that affect defenses? Would the infielders position themselves significantly different if they knew they wouldn’t have to worry about a bunt? Maybe they already don’t worry about bunting since it’s a dying art? The best bunter in MLB history is Brett Butler in the 80’s and the 90’s. I bet he can’t even watch MLB anymore because of what’s happened to the bunt.
Here’s a page about the great bunters in MLB history. How come none of them played before the 40’s? And the most recent player on the list is from 18 seasons ago.