Quote:
Originally posted by DeltaSigStan
what makes a 12 yr old kid see ROger Clemens bean him back and not think that THAT's the right thing to do?
Thoughts?
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I have to say that I think the brushback and beanings are a part of the game. A part that was at one time important in sending a message...namely, that not respecting your opponents was not going to go unnoticed. It was done, and everyone knew why it was being done: fans, teammates, announcers - everyone. Fathers explained it to their kids and that the proper response was to simply take the base. However in these days of cry baby, egotistical ball players, the punishment is now responded to by a charging of the mound...and I for one think it's incredibly sad that today's players seem incapable of putting things in perspective.
Anyway, I know that my little brother's team of 14 year olds plays old school ball, and their manager even has a specific signal for the pitcher to hit the batter. At the same time he has taught them not to be unsportsmanlike in their conduct. During one particular game I saw one kid remain in the lineup until his turn to bat, where he was subsequently beaned. Upon reaching first base, there was a pinch runner for the kid, and he ended up sitting out the rest of the game and the next one.
Basically my point is that there is a right way to play the game, and there should be an allowed means of punishment when those boundries are broken. However at the same time there needs to be an explanation at each juncture of why that happened. Coaches need to realize that sportsmanship is part of their job and needs to be a priority. Parents also should explain when watching pro sports that the actions by the pros are not appropriate.
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