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Originally Posted by RchW
Great idea in principle but it seems to me that you would need to create an entirely new game engine for game lengths different than 9 innings. Shorter or longer games would have radically different pitcher use strategies. Batter value/usage would also be changed.
For example a 7-inning standard game could produce two radically different pitching strategies. Paired pitching with 4 innings or 2X through the lineup for the starter and his twin or leverage existing 5-6 inning starters and use paired lefty righty setup/closers for 2-innings. Either way you'd likely have 2 or 3 less pitchers per team. I have no idea what longer games would need.
Shorter games would likely push batter strategy away from high power high K to OBP and speed. With one less (at least) PA per game getting runners on base and moving them might work better. You might see IBB used more often on power hitters just to rob them of a HR opportunity. For example in a 7-inning game I'd consider walking Miguel Cabrera any time he came up with the bases empty and less than 2 out after his first PA.
As with pitching I have no idea what longer games would do.
Intriguing idea but a long shot for any realistic application IMO.
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This. Rosters would have to be completely revamped for the number of innings their pitchers would have to go. If it was 6-7 innings, they probably wouldn't even need a bullpen, while if it was 12 or so, they would need a heck of a lot more relievers, especially if they were going to play the matchup game.