Should the MLB return to the balloon??
 

Piggybacking on my other thread (Yeah I know, it seems I'm obsessed with it :D). I was wondering, in light of safety concerns, should the MLB return to the balloon protector?

No. No. No. No. I think that's long enough.

OK, now for the obligatory follow-up. Besides the influence of Bill Klem and the National League, why??

The poll is more than obviously biased. The answers are so slanted to a presumed opinion that it is a miracle the don't slide off the monitor's screen.

If you are truly interested in an honest opinion, provide proper alternative answers. Otherwise, no one who disagrees with you has a viable choice and should definitely not participate.

Of course I was approaching this with a rather tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. ;)

Now! As to why I have the interest in this subject? Watching vintage footage of the American League vets like Nestor Chylack, Art Frantz, etc. using the raft, it got me thinking "why would anyone in their right mind want areas of their bodies exposed to serious injury"? These areas include: Forearms, collarbone, lower sternum, and upper thighs.

Who said any of us are in our right mind?


Tim.

I didn't see an option for "Hell No".

Yeah, I've taken my share of hits to the arms, wrist and hands and have worn the bruises like battle scars. I've also take many hits to the chest, shoulders and collar bones and haven't felt a thing. I feel confident that my equipment will protect me from serious damage. I wouldn't suggest that anyone get behind the plate with substandard equipment.

That's true ;)

If you're getting hit in the collarbone and sternum, perhaps you should upgrade to a better chest protector . :rolleyes:

My equipment is more than adequate, thank you.

Not if you're getting hit on the collarbone.

Then it's not adjusted / being worn properly.

1st time I got hurt........
 

wearing the previous CP was the last time I wore it. Ordered the Wilson Platinum, learned how to wear it properly and have been happy and unhurt ever since.

Please, no Balooneys! :(

I even discourage my Junior Umpires from wearing it. I donated my old CP's for the Minor League Umpires to wear.

A return to the ballon protectors seems foolishly retro to me, but I would like a return to those cool retro two-stitch beanie plate hats.:)

You mean the ones that make you look like a penis.