Terry Francona Wants MLB Rule Change for Teams to Use Entire Roster In Playoffs

If Cincinnati Reds manager Terry Francona could change one thing about the MLB, it would be requiring teams to utilize their entire lineup while in the postseason.

"You're seeing too much bullpen games in the playoffs," Francona said, according to ESPN. "That's not the way teams are really built. Now, I would like to see after 162 games, I would like to see teams have to use their entire roster. I think you would find the true best teams that way."

Francona believes this adjustment would enable the best teams to shine by showcasing the full depth of their rosters ahead of playoff runs, rather than forcing them to alter their strategies during the postseason.

"Not just maybe teams that are top-heavy with a couple of good pitchers and with days off you can throw your bullpen," Francona said, per ESPN. "I mean, I get it. They're competing. I'm not saying they're wrong to do it. Just don't think that's the way our game is built."

Ironically, Francona, known for his team-first mentality, has been dubbed the best manager in baseball for his bullpen management skills, according to both Los Angeles manager Ron Washington and Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton in the ESPN survey.

Last season, the Reds utilized 63 players throughout the year, highlighting their depth during a 77-85 campaign.