MLB implements a modified version of the 'don't tackle the fucking catcher' rule. I think ESPN gets it basically right.
http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_...r-the-game
Essentially, the run-of-the-mill blocking the plate now requires a slide. But, they left enough wiggle room so that the old timey crazy plays (where catchers would go way up the baseline to essentially tackle runners) is also not allowed.
I'm all for safety, but if the catchers has the ball and blocks the plate, sorry, the base runner should be allowed to railroad the fuck out of catcher and not just have to slide (so now instead of the catcher getting hurt, the base runner breaks his ankle. Got it.). They know the risk. I don't see how that can be "eliminated" from the game. But whatever, this is just one of many reasons baseball's popularity will continue to dwindle, though MLB and FOX will keep saying how attendance and ratings are up...
Also, LULZ, Ron Washington gets a 1-year extension in Texas. Cocaine for all!
(02-24-2014 10:50 PM)ADD Wrote: [ -> ]I'm all for safety, but if the catchers has the ball and blocks the plate, sorry, the base runner should be allowed to railroad the fuck out of catcher and not just have to slide (so now instead of the catcher getting hurt, the base runner breaks his ankle. Got it.). They know the risk. I don't see how that can be "eliminated" from the game. But whatever, this is just one of many reasons baseball's popularity will continue to dwindle, though MLB and FOX will keep saying how attendance and ratings are up...
Read the actual rule
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article/mlb/mlb-...y=news_mlb
It's left in the discretion of the umpire. Only the really bad ones are going to get calls.
can you still run over a catcher as long as you don't deviate?
(02-24-2014 11:00 PM)JAM Wrote: [ -> ]can you still run over a catcher as long as you don't deviate?
It's all in the discretion of the ump. If you SLIDE then you avoid the rule entirely. But if you don't slide (but stay in the lines) theoretically an ump could call you out.
that is bullshit, it should be if you have a path to the plate you take it, if the plate is blocked the catcher put himself there and thus is responsible for what happens. What if both players make an illegal play? Cather blocks plate with no ball and runner drops shoulder?
Again, the rule leaves it entirely within the discretion of the ump. If the catcher has the ball then he cannot be in violation of the rule. If the runner slides he cannot be in violation of the rule. All other situations are within the discretion of the ump.