Recent Comments by jman

First Base Coach Killed by Line Drive

The reason I felt the glove was a ridiculous idea is 1. If the coach is not looking the glove won't help. Besides the only thing a glove protects is the hand. I'm sure if he saw the ball coming he would have got a hand up. A broken hand trumps death on my scorecard. 2. The helmet is a totally passive defense, doesn't interfere with his duties and provides adequate protection, especially for coaches looking at runners and fielders or instructions from the bench. posted by Atheist at 1:34 PM CDT on July 23 QFE

posted by jman at 01:47 PM on July 23, 2007

First Base Coach Killed by Line Drive

Thanks for the reminder texasred. I know I forgot to put a period.

posted by jman at 01:20 PM on July 23, 2007

First Base Coach Killed by Line Drive

I personally understand the safety concerns by some of you. I don't want to disrespect the deseased coach, but do we know if he was even paying attention? Out of all the millions (yes, millions) of line drives that have been hit throughout the century (in majors, minors, college, and high school), how many base coaches have been killed by a line drive? Sounds like only one. A much, much greater number of pitchers have been hit since they're a lot closer to the batter. I do agree that some sort of safety device must be used. How about a skull cap or a protective mask (like catchers and umpires use?) My guess is that he didn't follow the ball's trajectory as it left the bat. It was a freak accident. My condolences to his family

posted by jman at 01:07 PM on July 23, 2007