MLB Players' Association executive director Tony Clark expressed the union's disapproval of the decision to reduce the pitch clock time from 20 to 18 seconds with runners on base for the upcoming 2024 season. Clark emphasized that the change came too soon and should have been subjected to a more thorough discussion among the players and league officials. Despite the objections raised by the players and concerns about the impact on game play and player safety, the league's competition committee approved the decrease in pitch clock time.

The introduction of a pitch clock in the 2023 season aimed to cut down game times, with statistics showing an average drop of 24 minutes to 2 hours and 40 minutes. The league's push to reduce time between pitches with runners on base was prompted by an increase in average game times noted during the previous season, culminating in an average of 2:44 in September.

MLB reported that a significant percentage of pitch-clock violations occurred with runners on base, and the average time pitchers took before initiating their motions was notably close to the allotted time. The concerns raised by the Players' Association also include worries about the potential impact on pitcher recovery time and increased susceptibility to injuries due to shorter intervals between pitches.

Aside from the pitch clock changes, Clark is also managing other pressing matters during the spring training period, including addressing the Oakland A's situation, considering player participation in the 2028 Olympics, and handling player discontent regarding the new Fanatics-produced uniforms. The dialogue between the union and the league regarding the pitch clock adjustments underscores ongoing conversations and negotiations to maintain a balance between game regulations, player well-being, and the overall fan experience.