Originally Posted by SluggerDad:
Well, there is also rule 6.05 part m
Rule 6.05 reads:
A batter is out when --
(m) A preceding runner shall, in the umpire's judgment, intentionally interfere with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball or to throw a ball in an attempt to complete any play:
Rule 6.05(m) Comment: The objective of this rule is to penalize the offensive team for deliberate, unwarranted, unsportsmanlike action by the runner in leaving the baseline for the obvious purpose of crashing the pivot man on a double play, rather than trying to reach the base. Obviously this is an umpire's judgment play.
Rule 6.05 reads:
A batter is out when --
(m) A preceding runner shall, in the umpire's judgment, intentionally interfere with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball or to throw a ball in an attempt to complete any play:
Rule 6.05(m) Comment: The objective of this rule is to penalize the offensive team for deliberate, unwarranted, unsportsmanlike action by the runner in leaving the baseline for the obvious purpose of crashing the pivot man on a double play, rather than trying to reach the base. Obviously this is an umpire's judgment play.
Utley did not leave the baseline. Even under this, it is a legal slide. And the purpose is ALWAYS to try to break up the double play. Players are taught that from the time they start playing. Are people suggesting that breaking up the DP shouldn't be taught at all anymore? Or just taught to do it nicely?? There is going to be a real problem with the suspension being upheld, in my opinion. Utley, technically, did nothing to violate the rules of baseball. You can't suspend someone for doing what is legal, just because you didn't like the outcome. If you don't like it, change the rules, otherwise, let it be.