While I can’t stand the rule changes in the NFL that will more or less turn it into flag football, if the lockout ever ends, I sort of agree with this.
I never gave it much thought before, but a runner cannot barrel into the first baseman, shortstop, etc., so why should he be allowed to do this to the catcher.
I suppose the fact that catchers wear some protective gear is a factor, but that gear is designed to block baseballs, not fast moving humans.
If they ever do change the rule, they also need to make it illegal for the catcher to block the plate, unless he has the ball in his hand or glove. I thik plate blocking is probably what led to the practice of running over catchers.
It IS illegal to block the plate unless he has the ball in his hand. Same way at all the bases. If they have you dead to rights, you aren’t going to see the base behind the player blocking it. Collisions are more rare on the paths, but they do happen. Spiking more often, but you get ejected if you intentionally spike someone. I don’t think they sharpen their spikes any more either. Cain’t do nuthin no more.
First Basemen are rarely run into because it's a force at firstbase by rule. OTOH, they do get spiked with some frequency. It all depends on the nature of the throw. Middle infielders get run at with greater frequency when baserunners attempt to break up double-plays. It's part of the game.
The catcher is taught to block the plate and there is a technique to it. He's just very vulnerable while receiving the throw from Right Field.
I feel bad for Posey, but he's young and he will bounce back from this. I bet he doesn't give an inch on his next play at the plate. That's how it's done in the Bigs.