The Rules Have Changed
There are times in every game in which the rules are adjusted or tightened up to allow for better game play. The same thing has happened in baseball many times, especially when you look at the history of the game. For example, the game, which is originally a game that was called rounders that was played in England for more than 250 years, the rules of the game are different then they are today.
Even today there are small differences in the game play even from one region to the next. In the Major League game play in the United States, the rules for the National League and the American League are slightly different. Staying up to date on the rules is critical to playing well. You can find full rules available through the coaches teaching the game or even through their websites online. Know the rules to play well.