MLB rainout question

[TheSportsPredictor]

Does MLB have a policy that prohibits games from starting if it is raining/snowing?

 

[Freelance Hack]

I think the home team has the discretion of starting, delaying and/or canceling games prior to the first pitch.

Once the game starts, the discretion becomes the home plate umpire's (or crew chief, I'm not sure which).

 

[TheSportsPredictor]

Yes, I just wondered if there was any kind of rule that said no game will start if it is raining or snowing. Seems I've heard that before.

 

[spnited]

No such rule, TSP. Home team in consultation with umpires determines whether to start the game ... crew chief takes control once the game starts.

 

[TheSportsPredictor]

Thanks!

 

[T2]

It seems there are different standards for starting and continuing play. Often, the home team won't allow a game to start during a light sprinkle, or if the forecasters say a thunderstorm is going to pass through in half an hour. But once the game has begun, the umpires allow play to continue even through constant moderate rain or the ominous rumbling of thunder.

 

[beefncheddar]

It seems there are different standards for starting and continuing play. Often, the home team won't allow a game to start during a light sprinkle, or if the forecasters say a thunderstorm is going to pass through in half an hour.

Or if the home team's bullpen has thrown 421 1/3 innings in its first three games and needs a day off.