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http://forums.sportingnews.com/viewtopic.php?p=2268012#2268012	pikecracker wrote: 3.00 The first batter of every at bat determines the direction their team will run the bases for that half inning. The direction is only decided once the first runner has made it on base. After the first player decides the direction (right or left only) all batters must follow that direction for the rest of the at bat. Hmmm. This sounds like Little League, where some of the players have no idea which direction to run. Mike. I agree that there are parts of the game that could be changed. However, new does not mean better. I reviewed your new rules and don't think that would be an interesting game to watch. Plus, it would be extremely confusing to spectators, players, and coaches alike. What was your motivation? It seems designed to speed the game up, while simultaneously allowing for high scoring. Another point is about the double play rule. It is impossible to record a double play with two outs. As soon as the third out is recorded, the inning is over. What you should have said is, that under the new rules there are three outs per inning. However, a team can get extra outs as long as the play in which the third out occurs is still active. All outs carry over. In this case, the inning ends at the conclusion of the play, not with the third out. For example, on a double play situation with two outs, the inning wouldn't end until the batter reaches first or is put out at first, instead of when the third out is recorded. However, following this line of logic, if the bases are loaded with two outs, it would theoretically be possible to get four outs, carrying over three, thereby shaving off an entire half inning. I've got a better proposal. Instead of taking the carry over outs away from the team during their next at bat, add them to the opposing team's out total for the next half inning. Although it is fun to tinker around with, I only agree with a few of your new rules. All players should hit, and I like forcing the players to work faster. Although ten seconds is not enough time. I would lengthen it to 20 or 30. Right now I think pitchers have about a minute to deliver a pitch. Some people, like Steve Trachsel, use every second of it.

Answer	Thanks for the comments and suggestions Pikecracker... Rule 3.00 was meant to add excitement to even the most routine in field grounder. With a lead off grounder to right base suddenly the whole infield must react because the batter may run left or right. More players are involved...more possible scenarios...more strategies...more excitement... You are also right new does not mean better...but I've never heard of by keeping things at the status quo there were major improvements. Being open to change is a key element in improvement. Old baseball has been described by many as 3 minutes of action spread out over 3 1/2 hours. If The New Baseball Game can deliver 10 minutes of action over a 2 hour period, I think baseball would be a better game. I also think most people are smart enough to understand the different rules. I appreciate your input on the double play rule (and also with the batter/pitcher timing) and changes will be made to reflect your input . The web page and the The New Baseball Game rules are open to suggestions and improvements. Thanks again for your insights.