mlb_leagues

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral transparency. It describes the output format and implies a read-only 'catalogue' operation, but it does not disclose potential rate limits, authentication needs, or whether the tool is safe to call repeatedly. The return type is specified, which adds value.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is extremely concise: two sentences and a sample output. It is front-loaded with the core purpose ('League catalogue') and provides immediate value. Every part is relevant and there is no redundancy.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given that there are 3 optional parameters, no enums, and no output schema, the description is partially complete. It explains sportId and the output structure, but misses details on the other two parameters. The tool is simple, so the description is adequate but not thorough.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The schema has three parameters with 0% description coverage. The description only mentions sportId with an example value, leaving seasons and leagueIds unexplained. This is insufficient compensation for the lack of schema descriptions. The agent would need to guess the purpose of the other two parameters.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool returns league information, with specific examples (American League and National League) and a hint about the sportId parameter. However, it does not explicitly distinguish this tool from the many other MLB-related tools in the sibling list, such as mlb_divisions or mlb_seasons, which could lead to confusion about when to use this tool over others.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides an example usage ('Pass sportId=1 for MLB') but does not offer explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites, context, or when not to use it. The usage is implied but not fully clarified.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.