Why do they only allow the ball to be used 4-5 times in Major League Baseball?

Answer 1

In the MLB, umpires will bring in a new ball at their discretion. Pitchers may ask the umpire for a new ball because they don't like the current ball, or are stalling a bit.

Umpires try to keep the game fair and balls get dirty with use and harder to see. They may also get nicked up when hit or when the hit the catcher's gear.

These days, umpires will replace a ball if it's thrown in the dirt by the pitcher. It may stay in play longer on outs made in the field longer.

For info on MLB and other Baseball rules see:

http://www.hitpitchcatch.com/baseball-rules-softball-rules.html#MLBBaseball

Answer 2

In 1920 they changed the rules saying that balls always had to be "clean". Before that pitchers would scuff them to make them hard to see and easy to move. Since any ball that hits the dirt is dirtied, the balls need to be replaced very frequently.

Answer 3

dents from hits, scrapes and cuts from hitting the ground or other items, would give the pitcher an advantage, if an new ball is always used it cant be said it wasnt fair.

Answer 4

they dont always but if it is wet on the ground or it is raining the ball will obviosly be slippery and the pitcher will not be able to pitch properly

Answer 5

I read somewhere that the life of a Major League Baseball is 2.2 pitches