MLB needs to optimize the Extra Innings Ghost Runner rule for the 2022 season, here's how MLB can do it.

What a difference 90 feet makes in the game of baseball. As Major League Baseball contemplates whether they will add the Ghost Runner second base rule at the start of extra innings for the 2022 year, they miss the most ideal scenario of all.

Why won't MLB place the ghost runner at first base instead of second base? A ghost runner at first creates a chance for fans to see successful small ball from first base. Some teams will of course try to move the runner to second base via a steal or sacrifice, while other teams will hit away hoping to avoid the dreaded double play.

Starting an extra base inning with a Ghost Runner at First Base creates so much more drama that is not based on the "sudden death" mantra that is created with a Ghost Runner on Second base. 

Look at all the options available to the manager that makes the game so much more interesting for the fan when the Ghost Runner is at first base instead of second...Hit and Run, Attempting a Stolen base, Sacrifice bunt, First to third on a single but having to challenge the arm of the right fielder, a pick-off play, the dreaded double play unless it is the opposing team up to bat.  Trying to score from first on a double, 

All of that is basically reduced to nothing more than one hit and will the runner try to score from second when the Ghost Runner starts extra innings at second base.

Los Angeles Emmy winning Producer Alessandro Machi combines his editing, camera and observational skills to provide unique insights into the World of Sports.