Overview
The tiebreaker rule places runners on first and second with no outs at the start of designated extra innings to prevent prolonged games. NPB first introduced it for the All-Star Game in 2018, while high school baseball adopted it from the 13th inning onward at the 2018 Summer Koshien. MLB implemented it during the shortened 2020 COVID season and made it permanent in 2023. The tiebreaker effectively reduces player workload and game duration, but demands different tactical decisions: whether to sacrifice bunt runners to second and third, or swing away for a big inning. This strategic fork often determines the outcome.