Fair points Tom. I still believe that the major changes suggested such as banning all composites can wait until 2004. I think most would consider that a major change in standards because it is a major change in materials allowed.
Look, this isnt as easy as tuning on and off a light switch because there is a huge impact on the sport in dollars and
PR that will be negative towards the ASA should they act mid season in my opinion.
Remember, the players are the people that make this all happen. You have to work with us too to make this work. There are some players who complain about hot bats but there are just as many if not more that feel that another mid-season super-ban is not the way to go. If the bats passed the existing published testing standards, they should be allowed, period. If you want to change testing, standards, balls, hats, socks...anything you can think of, lets slow down, get the wording right....get the testing program where it needs to be and then roll it out for 2004.
If we wait until next season and heck, go back to no double walls or composites, thats fine. At least we will have an orderly change that is planned and we would know that the ASA is considering the entire picture. We'd leave this season with the confidence that any purchase for 2004 would be a good decision because the ASA is working with all parties invoved. I fear another mid season change regardless of who is a fault will lead to a further loss of players and teams at a time when the sport can least afford it.
Excellent debate Tom.
Larks