We argue about how changes in rules and strategies have changed the game and screwed up stats and records today. Use of the closer, use of multiple relievers, shifts, dead ball, live ball, etc, but over the years there have been rules that have increased stirke outs (base umpires calling checked swings), decreased strike outs (lowering the mound), and, sheesh, long long ago a pick off really was a pick off, because if you could hit the runner with the ball when he was off base, he was "picked off." Bet there were a lot more brawls back then.
Now they're talking about moving the rubber back 6 inches. I read an article that would actually help pitchers because many times the most vicious movement on the ball is after it crosses the plate.
On the broadcast they were talking about how next year, relievers would have to face 3 hitters. Two I could understand. Three will put some guys out of work. Three will mean you will need several guys with closer stuff and mentality. Three means you can't take a chance with wild people who have potential but are inconsistent. Like Edwards. Three may mean the manager will try to squeeze one more inning out of the starter, leading to a few more W's for starters.
As far as checked swings are concerned, there was a time when only the plate umpire called them...lots of arguments when that was true.