Is MLB banning the defensive shift really going to make a difference in baseball?

While MLB owners and the players union have made little progress in negotiations to end the lockout, Sunday did bring news of some major rules changes coming to the big-league game.

The players union agreed to give MLB the power to institute changes like larger bases, a pitch clock and banning the defensive shift starting in 2023 — as long as the union is given 45 days notice. Though the first two changes are aimed at speeding up the game and player safety, the decision to ban defensive shifts aims directly at the strategic approach to baseball.

But will it actually make the huge difference that MLB owners are banking on? It’s debatable.