Well I have no problem with what Tim was referring to. We too are assigned our positions when we get our games. So if I show up to a game where I am assigned to work the plate with a younger member and he takes out his gear wanting to do the plate, that fine with me! I welcome partners that come forward wanting to handle the dish because I've had more than my share of partners that:
- forgot their plate gear
- just did a plate 3 days ago and are tired
- have a bruise on their thigh and want to take it easy
- going to run a 5k tomorrow and don't want to get tired
- have a headache
- forgot their cup
- have a boil on their butt so they can't wear their jock.
You see, I was brought through the ranks as a "plate man" in the old days. Almost every assignment was the plate in the early years so I am so used to the dish, I used to treat being on the bases almost like being in exile! Of course now, I welcome the break when I can get it. But if the young buck forgot his gear again, I show him how the old fart can still get the job done!
Regards