Make Baseball Not Soft Again

By Justin Raley

Anthony Rizzo has sparked some serious controversy in the MLB world the last few days after his “dirty” slide into Pirates catcher, Elias Diaz. With the bases loaded in the 8th inning of the game, Rizzo slid into Diaz’s legs on a ball thrown from the shortstop, trying to break up the double play. The throw ventured into right field and Javy Baez ended up scoring as a result. As Diaz rolled on the ground because of the slide, the Pittsburgh crowd erupted in boos, as a result of this “dirty” slide. After the scuffle, Pirates manager Clint Hurdle (who was ejected for arguing the result of the replay) later stated that the interpretation of the slide rule basically made it “open season” on catchers. Rizzo, in response, said that he was just doing what he has been taught forever and he has a responsibility to break up the double play. Joe Maddon also said that it was a “perfect play.” Was it legal or illegal? According to MLB Rule 6.01(j), a bona fide slide “occurs when the runner (1) begins his slide (i.e., makes contact with the ground) before reaching the base; (2) is able and attempts to reach the base with his hand or foot; (3) is able and attempts to remain on the base (except home plate) after completion of the slide; and (4) slides within reach of the base without changing his pathway for the purpose of initiating contact with a fielder.” Here is the deal: Anthony Rizzo was able to touch over half his body to the plate, therefore clean slide. The only thing you could get him on would be that he deviated his path. In my opinion, the rule itself is stupid. Breaking up a double play, whether that be at home plate or at second, is a huge part of the game. It is how I was taught to play and everyone else I know. As a baseball player, as a teammate, as someone playing the game hard, you have a responsibility to break up the double play. It is really that simple. People are going to get hurt sometimes, it is a part of the game. Get over it and quit being so soft. Play the game hard and break up the double play.