Atlanta Braves Morning Chop: About that Rule Again?
Pitching was the order of the day as the Braves survive an unusually good start from Wily Peralta – responding with one of their own from Tyrell Jenkins.
That makes 10 wins in Atlanta’s last 14 games and a 15-15 record in their last 30 contests (12-14 since the All-Star Break).
Erick Aybar extended his hitting streak to 14 while Ender inciarte’s stalled at 19. Aybar’s run now becomes the third-longest active streak behind Carlos Gonzalez (17) and David Dahl (15). Aybar has 20 hits over than span, 5 RBI, and just 5 strikeouts, hitting .385 in the process.
Atlanta’s 2-1 victory assures at least a series tie. Another W would give them 3 in a row (all over NL Central foes) and 4 out of 5, with a 2-2 push against the Phillies mixed in.
One Thing to Nit-Pick
New MLB Rule 6.01(j) reads as follows:
"If a runner does not engage in a bona fide slide, and initiates (or attempts to make) contact with the fielder for the purpose of breaking up a double play, he should be called for interference under this Rule 6.01. A “bona fide slide” for purposes of Rule 6.01 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."
"… If the umpire determines that the runner violated this Rule 6.01(j),the umpire shall declare both the runner and batter-runner out."
So if a runner slides toward second base (he actually slid toward Aybar), but never reaches the base, he’s in violation of the rule by its very definition, right? And a replay review of this should confirm that, right??? (Asking for a friend).
If you don’t know what I’m talking about, here’s the incident report with a link to the video:
Hey, it’s their stupid rule, not mine. If it’s gonna exist, the least they should do is enforce it.
Tonight it’s another 8:10 ET start: Joel De La Cruz vs. Chase Anderson (6-10, 5.10). Anderson’s last time out was the first time he’d gotten through 6 innings since June 8th. Two times ago, the right-hander gave up no earned runs to Pittsburgh in 5 innings.
Next: Raise Your Glass to the Braves
Full game recap can be read at this link above.