Major League Baseball wants fan-friendlier batting practice

Lost in the din of controversy over proposed rule changes to speed up the game, such as a pitch clock and a limit on mound visits, is another proposal designed to enhance fan experience that is creating chatter in big-league clubhouses.

Major League Baseball would like to flip-flop the long-held batting practice schedule that has home teams hitting first and visitors second.

The league would like the home team to go last so their fans can watch all of their favorite players hit.

Most home teams start batting practice before the gates open.

From a logistical standpoint, there are other things at play besides making sure your fans see you at batting practice, but that's the primary motivation.

If they are going to have 90 minutes between batting practice and the first pitch, instead of 45, they prefer it at home in the comfort of their dining, lounging and workout facilities, which are superior to any they have in visiting clubhouse elsewhere.