A New Era for the National Pastime
Bud Selig, the longtime architect of modern baseball, sat down with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Todd Rosiak for a wide‑ranging conversation that touched on the sport’s recent rule overhauls, the reception of new technology, and the financial outlook for clubs as the current collective bargaining agreement draws to a close.
He acknowledged that, despite personal reservations about some of the adjustments, the game today presents a stronger product overall, a sentiment he believes resonates with both longtime supporters and newer fans.
Selig highlighted the Automated Ball‑Strike (ABS) challenge system as a standout example of fan‑focused innovation, noting that spectators have taken to the ability to contest calls, injecting a fresh layer of interaction into the viewing experience.
The former commissioner also turned his attention to the economic realities facing teams, especially those operating in smaller markets, and warned that the impending expiration of the labor deal will require careful navigation to maintain competitive balance.
Using the Milwaukee Brewers as a case study, Selig pointed to the franchise’s trajectory as proof that thoughtful management and strategic investments can yield success even without the deep pockets of the league’s biggest spenders.
Looking ahead, he emphasized the need for the sport to preserve its storied heritage while embracing change, a balancing act he sees as essential for sustaining baseball’s relevance in an increasingly entertainment‑driven marketplace.