Take Out Slides...part of the game?

I've never thought it should be part of the game. Pro baseball is the only place this is ok. They got rid of the home plate collision. This should be next. No reason mlb can't get along just fine with the same rules that govern NCAA and FED.

Kirkjian was talking about this today and was making the case that this is well within the rules of the game and it is the job of the runner to prevent the double play.

I'm usually a purist and don't mind some physical contact in the game.  But I don't like this.  I think the runner shoud have to slide directly to the bag unless the play dictates he hook slide away from bag and reach back.  Taking out the MIF who has shuffled clear of the bag is not a play I would say dictates that move.  Additionally, I don't think feet/spikes should be allowed to come in high.  There is no reason other than to try to cleat the ball out of the glove and that will end with bad results far too often.  Feet should have to hover close to the bag, certainly not more than, say 12-15" high.  Also, why is the runner allowed to slide well past the bag?  This is clearly done solely to take out the MIF with no intention of reaching the base safely.  Doesn't make sense.  Now if the MIF is directly in the path of the baseline, the runner should certainly be able to slide through him (with feet at a reasonable height).

Now, if this was cleaned up, I think the counter-action necessary would be to remove the "vicinity" play.  MIF should have to actually touch the bag for the force.

As I watched the video, it was obvious that the runner intentionally slide into the fielder.

Bip Roberts Oakland A's told a story at our clinic, where he would place his knee into the runner chest.

There is always "pay back".

Unfortunately Kang will be a 3b or 2b in the future.

Bob