This new rule needs to go, it makes no sense.
It has always been simple common sense:
runner must be entitled to the bag he is running to.
field chooses whether or not they want to block runner by standing between them and the bag.
the slide/collision is between two athletes with an assumed “gentlemen’s agreement” to play hard but not resort to dirty tactics that could seriously maime or injur.
baserunners know that they could use dirty tactics in sliding, that are very prone to causing injury, but that someday there may be retribution on them if they push it too hard.
men who push the limits will tend to get hit by pitches more, for example.
It has always all worked fine, the new rule needs to go.
It’s a completely idiotic rule, catcher can’t block the plate.
It’s hardly worth watching those plays this year, it’s like playing “tag” football.
It does not look professional, it looks like a bunch of weenies.
MLB should feel ashamed for contributing to ruining the game.
Look at post #16 to see how well the gentleman’s agreement worked. Ty Cobb is pictured making a flying, feet-first leap into the crotch of the catcher, wearing actual, sharpened spikes (not just “spikes”) on his feet. How do you retaliate adequately? Drive nails into a bat and smash Ty Cobb’s brains out all over the playing field?