Major League Baseball has actively managed the aerodynamic properties of its baseballs to influence league-wide home run rates, according to internal directives revealed by Bradford William Davis of Eyeblack. Documentation shows that on October 17, 2019, MLB executive vice president Morgan Sword instructed Rawlings executives to manufacture baseballs designed to meet specific performance targets.
How does MLB manipulate home run rates?
The league utilizes manufacturing specifications—specifically regarding drag and bounciness—to steer the game toward desired aesthetic outcomes. According to reporting by Bradford William Davis, Morgan Sword explicitly directed Rawlings executives on October 17, 2019, to build a ball capable of maintaining a “target leaguewide home run rate.” This centralized control over the physical composition of the baseball allows MLB to influence the frequency of long balls by adjusting production standards.
The physical composition of the baseball has fluctuated significantly over the last several years. Data shows that 2022 featured a higher-drag ball, while 2023 transitioned to a lower-drag model. By 2025, the ball was bouncier, creating a “weird pattern” of performance that has left teams struggling to adjust their offensive strategies.
What are the consequences for MLB teams?
Constant shifts in ball aerodynamics force teams to pivot their offensive approaches, often with mixed results. The Atlanta Braves serve as a primary example of how these changes disrupt professional strategy. According to reports, the team adjusted its offensive approach in 2025 in response to the higher-drag environment observed in 2024. This adjustment failed, in part because the 2025 baseballs were bouncier. By June 2026, the team reverted to pre-2025 strategies as the league saw a resurgence in the effectiveness of deep fly balls.
Why is the 2026 season seeing production issues?
The 2026 season has been marked by reports of manufacturing inconsistencies and discolored baseballs, which have been removed from consideration before they roll into play. These production hurdles coincide with a notable drop in drag readings. While the early 2026 season appeared to track with 2024 standards, the ball’s performance shifted mid-year, mirroring the characteristics of 2025.
To better understand how these changes affect your favorite team, keep an eye on league-wide “drag” metrics rather than just raw home run totals. When drag readings plummet, the ball travels further, often masking changes in player performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MLB admit to changing the baseball?
While MLB has long been suspected of altering the ball, the revelation of Morgan Sword’s 2019 instruction to Rawlings provides concrete evidence of the league’s intent to manage the game’s aesthetic through equipment engineering.
Is the information about the “target home run rate” verified?
Yes, the information was compiled by Bradford William Davis, who obtained documentation regarding the 2019 directive from Morgan Sword to Rawlings executives.
How can fans track changes in the baseball?
Fans can follow reporting on aerodynamic drag readings and manufacturing consistency, which are often cited by independent analysts as key indicators of how the ball will behave on the field.
What do you think about the league’s role in shaping the game’s outcome? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into the business of professional sports.
