As professional sports decides whether or not to play this summer because of the deadly coronavirus disease, many baseball fans must be quite disturbed that the entire season could be lost because the owners and players cannot come to an economic framework that both sides can agree on to salvage the regular season and playoffs. Compared to hockey, basketball, and football, the most social distancing during game action occurs between players in baseball.
Let us just put this into perspective. During any Major League Baseball game, there is an immense amount of social distancing among all the players on the baseball field at any given time. The three defensive players in the outfield are far apart. Same with the four defensive players in the infield (the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop). The pitcher meanwhile is in the middle of the infield and separated from everyone. Yes, the batter is near the catcher and home plate umpire. However, the catcher and home plate umpire always wear masks.
There is talk Major League Baseball is considering fining players for spitting. This does not suit well with Colorado Rockies star outfielder Charlie Blackmon who said this past week “I’m 100% gonna spit.” However, if Blackmon spits while in the outfield when he is completely far away from everyone else, will Major League Baseball come down on him, or give Blackmon a little bit of leniency. There is no doubt that players will have to change some of their habits and overall mindset with coronavirus. At this stage, let us just hope the players and owners can come to an agreement so baseball can actually be played.
