MLB Requires Base Coaches to Stay in Boxes During Pitches

Astros coaches adjust to new rule aimed at preventing pitch-tipping

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:36pm

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Major League Baseball has implemented a new rule this season requiring base coaches to stay within the coaching boxes until the pitch is delivered. This change is intended to address concerns about coaches leaving the boxes to try to detect pitch-tipping by opposing pitchers. Astros third-base coach Tony Perezchica and first-base coach Dave Clark will have to adapt their positioning and visual cues under the new rule.

Why it matters

The new rule is a response to complaints that some coaches were leaving the coaching boxes to try to gain better angles to detect pitch-tipping, which is a common practice in baseball. This could provide an unfair advantage, so MLB is cracking down to ensure a level playing field.

The details

Under the new rule, base coaches will have to remain in the coaching boxes until the pitch is delivered. Leaving the box could result in a warning for the first violation and potential ejection for further infractions. Astros coaches Perezchica and Clark will have to adjust their positioning and visual cues, as they often leave the box to get a better view of the field and runners.

  • The new MLB rule was implemented for the 2026 season.

The players

Tony Perezchica

The Houston Astros' third-base coach who will have to adjust his positioning under the new rule.

Dave Clark

The Houston Astros' first-base coach who will also have to adapt to the new requirement to stay in the coaching box.

Joe Espada

The Houston Astros' manager who supports the new rule and expects his base coaches to adapt.

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What they’re saying

“I know most of us as third-base coaches, we like to get some kind of visual of the whole field and at the same time have the liberty of being able to go to certain spots where you're out of harm's way with the line drives, number one, and number two, be in a better position to allow us to see the play as much as we can.”

— Tony Perezchica, Third-base coach, Houston Astros (Houston Chronicle)

“Clarkie and Tony have never had that issue — they will stay in the box. Tony, once the pitch is delivered and the ball is put in play, he can exit the box and put himself in a good spot. So that's something that he's going to work on. And same thing with Clarkie. Once the pitch is delivered, he can walk and get himself in a good position to make good decisions on the bases.”

— Joe Espada, Manager, Houston Astros (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The Astros' base coaches will work on adjusting their positioning and visual cues during spring training to adapt to the new MLB rule requiring them to stay in the coaching boxes until the pitch is delivered.

The takeaway

The new MLB rule restricting base coaches' movements is intended to prevent pitch-tipping and ensure a level playing field, but it will require Astros coaches Perezchica and Clark to significantly change their in-game routines and positioning to comply.