This MLB season is witnessing the highest rate of steal attempts in nearly three decades, averaging over one attempt per game, driven by new rules limiting pickoff throws, larger bases, and the pitch clock. Although success rates for steals have dipped slightly to 78.5%, they remain historically high, with catchers improving their pop times, thus narrowing the gap between sprint speeds and throw times. Players like J.T. Realmuto and Patrick Bailey exemplify the advancements in catcher skill, which may balance the running game as teams adapt to increased baserunning activity.
