Tights for work behind the plate

[Kevin Finnerty]

MSBL Nationals game: Righty batter, catcher moves way inside. Now I'm working a little higher and right over the top of his head, instead of being in the true slot. Slender catcher, and a big right-hander throwing high-80s/low-90s. He throws this sweeping sailing fastball and the catcher does a Russ Martin, and I catch a straight shot in the inside of my right thigh, right behind where I have my thumb.

I went right home, and as my football-shaped thigh bruise was forming, I went to Lester's, PayPal'ed him $53 bucks plus shipping--a mere portion of that day's game fee--and the next time and every time since, I have worn them behind the plate. The compression is not as great as with the unpadded tights, but they are very comfortable and the protection is outstanding.