There's Got to Be a Better Way

"Pssst... Hey buddy, can I have a look?" As Aaron Nola gets leaves the field after a half-inning ends, the umpire calls to him and asks to inspect his gear. IN FULL VIEW OF THE CROWD AND THE TV CAMERAS. 

 

I know MLB officials are cracking down on pitchers using unauthorized substances on balls. But is this the best way for the game to be enforcing this already-controversial policy? As Mets President Sandy Alderson likes to say, "Bad optics."

Why embarrass the player in the process? If baseball officials believe the gear need to be immediately checked, why not have someone waiting in the tunnel connected to the dugout, who can take the glove or cap or belt into a secure area? Thus, the process becomes more intrusive, less disruptive.

This application of the policy is childish and potentially humiliating. Will it make the fans more confident that the game is being played by the rules? Not sure. It will likely lead to more emotional outbursts such as Sergio Romo dropping his pants, or Max Scherzer losing his temper.

Memo to Mr. Manfred: a little subtlety could go a long, long way.




 


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