Give Rob Manfred credit: two days into his new job as commissioner of Major League Baseball and he's already inspiring spirited debate.
Manfred's first day as commissioner included signing the 2015 baseball, outlining his top five priorities, and writing an open letter to fans - all of which occurred before he even arrived at MLB headquarters for his first official day in office.
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Manfred's media tour included an interview with Tyler Kepner of the New York Times, where he discussed the possibility of a designated hitter in the National League and whether baseball will ever return to Montreal.
Here's an excerpt of what he told the Times:
National League DH
I have never experienced one moment of mental dissonance over the fact that the American League has it and the National League doesn't. I just never have. It's interesting, right now, given where offense is in our game. I can't see the American League clubs giving it up, and right now, given the composition of our National League owners, I don't see them buying into it. So I think we’re staying where we are.
Baseball returning to Montreal
Look, I think Montreal helped itself as a candidate for Major League Baseball with the Toronto games that they had up there last year. It's hard to miss how many people showed up for those exhibition games. It was a strong showing. Montreal's a great city. I think with the right set of circumstances and the right facility, it’s possible.
Sponsored jerseys
There was more chatter about that in the game 10 years ago than there is now. It's just not a hot issue for us. I think people have great respect for the way our uniforms look. I don't foresee that one; I really don't.
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Manfred was also asked during an interview with ESPN's Jerry Crasnick about the status of Pete Rose and whether the new commissioner would consider overturning his lifetime ban.
Cincinnati is hosting this year's All-Star Game and the team has already said it plans to include baseball's all-time hits leader in the festivities.
"It's always been a commissioner-only issue," Manfred said. "I understand I have to get completely conversant and deal with whatever request comes my way from Mr. Rose. I'm just not at a point in time where I can say anything intelligent about it. I do, however, recognize that it's an issue.''
