Intentional walk / hit batsman

[MikeStrybel]

1) A pitching coach is a coach; a manager is not. It seems that some on this board continue to assume in efforts to defend another's error. I wrote what happened, not what some of you want to have occured. I never stated that this was about 11-12 year olds.

2) The play was offered as a continuation of what some coaches will do. That is what this thread involved, right?

3) I have received a few PMs telling me not engage Michael in this nonsense. I attempted to establish mutual respect. I offered an affirmation by stating that I am sure he is a decent umpire and a swell guy, even after being told that he would do as he pleases. I want to discuss baseball and leave internet bashing to those inclined to such behavior. If some of you construe that to be condescending you are wrong.

4) I related the story and didn't feel the need to elaborate about every possible detail. It came from a fellow umpire who wrote up his game incident report and shared it with me. He ejected the pitcher, coach and manager from that game. He agreed with me that while devious, pro ball has numerous examples of such clever behavior. It should be noted that in addition to clever, I also wrote that it was not cool. I hardly suggested it was a good thing.

clever - [klev-er]
–adjective, -er, -est.
1. mentally bright; having sharp or quick intelligence; able.
2. superficially skillful, witty, or original in character or construction; facile: It was an amusing, clever play, but of no lasting value.
3. showing inventiveness or originality; ingenious: His clever device was the first to solve the problem.
4. adroit with the hands or body; dexterous or nimble.
5. Older Use .
a. suitable; convenient; satisfactory.
b. good-natured.
c. handsome.
d. in good health.


5) #3 should suffice as to an explanation of the word as it was originally used in my post.

I believe that it is best to just move on. I am sorry for having mentioned a play without considering that it could be misconstrued. My intent was to discuss baseball not attack each other.

Enjoy your season.

[Welpe]

Originally Posted by MikeStrybel

1) A pitching coach is a coach; a manager is not. It seems that some on this board continue to assume in efforts to defend another's error. I wrote what happened, not what some of you want to have occured. I never stated that this was about 11-12 year olds.

I almost addressed the coach v. manager aspect but I DID assume that a minor league manager would be the one to make such a decision so you got me there.

I am not defending anybody's "error", I am sharing how you were perceived by a disinterested third party (and I'm not the only one it seems). Context is important. I don't really care who is "right".

Might I offer a piece of friendly advice and advise you just relax a little and get to know the place and participants? It may provide a more pleasant experience. But you are free to do as you wish.

[MikeStrybel]

My friend, I feel no ill will towards any one here. Six years in Asia taught me to embrace life differently.

One of the PMs I received asked why I always wish people a safe or enjoyable season in closing. I hope it is obvious now.

Thank you.

[Welpe]

Have a good season, Mike. I am not going to be calling baseball this year but I hope to return next year.

[MrUmpire]

Originally Posted by MikeStrybel

1) A pitching coach is a coach; a manager is not. It seems that some on this board continue to assume in efforts to defend another's error. I wrote what happened, not what some of you want to have occured. I never stated that this was about 11-12 year olds.

When one writes a post that deviates as far from the OP situation (11-12 year olds v. MiLB) one should so inform his audience. Not doing so was the cause of confusion rather than anyone assuming anything.

[MikeStrybel]

I realize the confusion. I have read numerous threads where people change the subject, rules used or particulars from the original play. I didn't know that I had to do anything different.

I'm moving on now. I wish you a good season and that none of these coach's game playing makes its way onto your fields. Thanks.