To the Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA):

We, the undersigned fans and baseball advocates, respectfully urge you to expand the Rookie of the Year (ROY) award criteria to recognize both a Rookie Pitcher and a Rookie Position Player within each league. Currently, the ROY award acknowledges only one player per league, which does not do justice to the unique contributions of rookies in different positions.

Rationale Behind the Petition

Recognition of Different Roles:  The significance of recognizing different roles cannot be overstated. Both rookie pitchers and position players have a substantial impact on a team's success, and it is important to acknowledge their contributions separately. Each of them plays a crucial part in determining game outcomes. The control of the pace and flow of the opposing team's offensive attack in every game is influenced by pitchers, while position players have a dual impact on offense and defense, affecting both runs scored and prevented.

Diverse Skill Sets:  The unique skill sets required for pitchers and player positions present varying levels of difficulty. By recognizing these distinct talents with separate awards, a more equitable assessment of individual performance is made possible. This approach acknowledges the specific paths taken by each player as they navigate their rookie seasons, during which both groups must adjust to the demands of Major League Baseball.

Positive Impact on the Game:  In emphasizing its up-and-coming talent, baseball stands to gain significant advantages as a sport. It has been demonstrated through data that the performance of rookies frequently acts as a driving force behind a team's accomplishments. In recent years, numerous rookies have reached noteworthy milestones, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging their contributions. The rising number of rookie pitchers who have impressive statistics, such as low ERAs and high strikeout rates, highlights their preparedness for competition. On the other hand, rookie position players persist in generating excitement through strong batting averages, speed on the base path, and dynamic plays in the field.

Alignment with Other Sports:  Major sports leagues have implemented comparable recognition systems with success. In the NBA, offensive and defensive rookies are recognized separately, serving as an example for MLB to potentially improve its recognition system.

Proposal

We propose that Major League Baseball and the Baseball Writers Association of America:

Modify the Rookie of the Year award into separate categories, effective immediately as to include the 2024 baseball season:

• AL Rookie of the Year (Position Player)
• AL Rookie of the Year (Pitcher)
• NL Rookie of the Year (Position Player)
• NL Rookie of the Year (Pitcher)

MLB can better honor the accomplishments of its talented rookies and increase fan involvement by creating separate Rookie of the Year awards for pitchers and position players. This adjustment will maintain the award's credibility and guarantee that all rookie players, whether on the mound or in the field, are duly acknowledged for their remarkable performances.

We, the undersigned, kindly request your support for this initiative. We are fans who live, breathe, and truly love Major League Baseball.