Explainers
MLB Shift Restrictions Explained for Position Players
Understand MLB infield shift limits, why they were introduced, and how restricted defensive alignments show up in batting results.
Two infielders on each side
Modern MLB restricts extreme infield shifts by requiring two infielders on each side of second base at pitch release, with infielders also needing to have their feet on the infield dirt. The goal was to restore more traditional batting-average outcomes on pulled ground balls.
Defenses can still shade and position within the rule. What disappeared was the pure four-man pull-side wall that erased so many left-handed singles.
How to evaluate hitters after the change
Compare pull-side ground-ball outcomes and overall batting average against earlier shift-heavy seasons with caution. Different rule environments create different baselines. Use Ballrecord season splits and career lines to keep eras honest.
Frequently asked questions
- Can outfielders still shift?
- Outfield positioning remains more flexible than the infield constraints. Teams still shade outfielders based on spray charts.
- Did shift limits increase batting average?
- They were designed to help certain pulled ground-ball profiles. League-wide effects vary by year and should be checked against the actual season tables.
Continue in the record
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