And the stuff they are eliminating (like signs) are part of the game, and should be, as it has been since when baseball was what it once was. Same thing with the electronic strike zone. The way the ump is calling the game is part of the game, and can be taken advantage of. As a pitcher, you know what you are getting that day, and what you aren't. Same with the hitter.
It is, and should be, a very cerebral game.
But I must admit, I don't really have a huge issue with the pitch count. I do remember the guy who played for the Indians who they called the human rain delay.