On Aug. 15, 2020, Max Muncy recorded the first leadoff sacrifice fly in MLB history, made possible by the ghost runner rule initiated due to pandemic precautions. Chris Taylor, an automatic runner, moved to third base, allowing Muncy’s fly ball to score the winning run in a tightly contested game, which ended 6-5 in favor of the Dodgers. This victory was part of a streak that contributed to the Dodgers achieving an MLB-best record during the brief season, leading to their World Series title. The ghost runner rule was later made a permanent feature in regular-season games.
On Aug. 15, 2020, Max Muncy hit the first leadoff sacrifice fly in MLB history due to the new ghost runner rule that was implemented by the league and Players Association (MLBPA) during the pandemic-shortened season to reduce health risks.
While the extra runner rule did not carry into the playoffs in 2020, it returned for the regular season in 2021 and 2022. Prior to the 2023 campaign, the joint competition committee voted to make the ghost runner rule a permanent addition for MLB.
The designated runner rule was first meant to have some health benefit, but it has also been part of various measures that reduced length of games. That's been a focal point for MLB commissioner Rob Manfred and remained at the core of the league eventually implementing further rule changes over ensuing years.
Although permanent, postseason games still do not include a designated runner for extra innings.
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