David Wells criticizes Rob Manfred’s impact on MLB pitching

Former New York Yankees pitcher David Wells expressed strong criticism of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred during an episode of OutKick's 'The Ricky Cobb Show.' Wells highlighted concerns regarding the current state of pitching in Major League Baseball, noting that starting pitchers are now throwing fewer innings than ever before due to restrictive pitch counts. He attributed his own longevity in the sport to his 'rubber arm' and the practice of long toss, which he believes helped pitchers endure long seasons. Wells lamented the changes in the game, suggesting that the new culture under Manfred's leadership is detrimental to the health and performance of pitchers. He pointed out that many pitchers from his era engaged in daily long toss, which he feels contributed to their durability. The former ace criticized the current approach to managing pitchers, indicating that it may lead to more injuries and shorter careers for players. In addition to his concerns about pitching, Wells also took aim at Manfred's broader impact on the game, referencing past decisions that have drawn criticism, such as relocating the MLB All-Star Game from Atlanta in 2021 due to political backlash. He argued that these changes are an attempt to alter the fundamental nature of baseball, which has remained consistent for over 150 years. Ultimately, Wells concluded that Manfred's tenure has been marked by poor decisions, leading him to label him as the worst commissioner in baseball history. His comments reflect a growing sentiment among former players regarding the direction of the league and its impact on the future of pitching.