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Online now: 7 members: Coach5, DaveDowell, LC7, Nelson8, TABLE SETTER 11, Tack26, breardon21; 205 anonymousDiscussion: SCREENS IN TOURNAMENTS
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| Nov. 3, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | SCREENS IN TOURNAMENTS My friend plays in the florida half century tournaments, this year they have gone to the screen,its the wave of the future, used to play 16 inch without gloves now they have glove tourneys, I think some association should try a few screen tourneys and see the results, you might be surprised, |
| Nov. 3, 2015 DieselDan Men's 75 602 posts | A no vote from me on this, unless there are stats from many tournaments stating during the playing of X number of games, Y number of pitchers were hit. There may have been more third basemen hit over the years than pitchers. Not going to see a screen at third. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 joel 1975 131 posts | the screen would open up the middle most guy's wont hit there now for concern for pitcher's!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Nov. 4, 2015 Duke Men's 65 908 posts | First off, I see many balls hit up the middle by other teams, my teams, and myself. As a pitcher, I have no problem with batters hitting the ball up the middle. I want to be part of the game too. Secondly, the only time a screen should be utilized is when the sun is in the eyes of the pitcher. Lastly, if a screen was made a permanent part of the game, then I would not pitch anymore and play a different position or just not play at all. JMHO, Andy Smith, 65 Major/Major Plus, Playing on no team at this time! |
| Nov. 4, 2015 joel 1975 131 posts | we have a screen in our league and ball's just fly up the middle and no one say'a a word takes away some hot one's from third. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 E6 in AZ Men's 50 91 posts | How about this ? Mark (chalk) off a 12 inch to 16 inch lane up the middle. A hit ball in this location is a DBO (dead ball out), runners do not advance ..... an out. That would make the hitter go one side or the other; and potentially protect the pitcher. Played in a tourney last week and we had the other club go after my guy up the middle it was stupid. Just my 2 cents. Mornin Jeff. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | We have been using a screen in league play for a couple of years now and I like it. As a matter of fact I won't pitch (well, don't like to pitch) without it. We are still allowed to field balls up the middle so it doesn't take the defensive position of pitcher out of the game. The screen allows a pitcher to have some protection from big hitters. By the way, a ball hitting the screen is a strike. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 Duke Men's 65 908 posts | E6 in AZ, We tried the 12-16 inch lane up the middle and it was a DBO, whether or not I was positioned in that area or not. Therefore, after I pitched the ball, I went somewhere else on the field to play defense, since my area was already a DBO. I would be good with that one. Andy Smith, 65 Major/Major Plus, Playing on no team at this time! |
| Nov. 4, 2015 papa t Men's 60 22 posts | This is not a good idea. I have found that in Sr softball middle has not been a big issue. Who's gonna move the screen on a throw from the outfield to the catcher? Or even a slow roller to the 3rd baseman? |
| Nov. 4, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | In two years of using the screen I can only think of one instance where a thrown ball hit the screen. One team doesn't have an advantage over the other. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 E6 in AZ Men's 50 91 posts | Duke, That is genius. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 Jawood Men's 50 943 posts | How about an 11th defensive player up the middle (or wherever)to help out the pitcher? It's already done in the 70+. The games would move a bit quicker and possibly allow us to play 7 innings. |
| Nov. 4, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | The 11th player doesn't help the pitcher from getting hit, once the ball is in play the screen becomes part of the playing field,thats why you have screen tournaments for teams who want it and tourneys for who don't, you will be schocked |
| Nov. 4, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | to answer you duke you are a major plus player |
| Nov. 4, 2015 Duke Men's 65 908 posts | Umbach, By association to my former team rating, therefore, that is my rating. Actually, my former 60 team was rated major plus. I have played major plus, major, AAA, and AA. Except for a large tournament like the Vegas Worlds, major plus is not a fun rating, as there are not enough major plus teams to play the rest of the year in other tournaments. With approximately 18 in the 60's and about 11 in the 65's in the entire organization, makes for a nothing trip and too expensive and not worth the time. BTW, my former team agreed and has elected to play 55 Major, so they have more teams in their bracket. JMHO, Andy Smith, Major/Major Plus |
| Nov. 5, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | Jarwood, the middle extra fielder doesn't stop balls from being hit up the middle. SSUSA needs to implement the "extra" fielder in the younger age groups, where it's being used now. THE 70's DON'T LIKE IT; after a long career in a game without it, as the skills diminish, you stick another player out there on defense. Lots of younger teams employ the 5 man infield where it is needed, let them play with 11. I watched them at Doc Romeo during the worlds, I'd say the majority of the Major and Major+ teams used the 5 man. GET RID OF THE 11th MAN RULE IN 70's. |
| Nov. 5, 2015 JT25 Men's 50 54 posts | If the screen is used to protect the pitcher then the batter should not be penalized for hitting the screen, It should be called a no pitch and continue with the same count. Also maybe back the pitching mound another ten feet so the pitcher has more time to react to the balls coming up the middle. |
| Nov. 5, 2015 Jawood Men's 50 943 posts | curveball, how does a fielder standing up the middle not deter batters from going up the middle? Don't you try to hit the ball where the defenders are not standing? I don't quite understand your idea that SSUSA should implement the 11th fielder for the younger groups, where it's being used now? It's not being used now, that was my point. |
| Nov. 5, 2015 Fred S Men's 85 297 posts | The reason the younger players don't want the 11th field because it lowers their batting average. If used properly it is a detrement to the offense. Having played 20 odd years with an 11th fielder it does severe as some protection for the pitcher. Your not going to protect the pitcher against hitters that don't have good bat control except with a screen. I would be courious how players commenting on the screen actually used one? We have used it for 4 yrs now and I don't see it as a problem depending on the rules you are using for the screen. |
| Nov. 5, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | I have no idea why so many balls are hit up the middle with an extra fielder. The extra fielder isn't usually standing directly behind 2nd base, he is usually 6-8 feet from the side of the bag, leaving the biggest hole in the infield between himself and either SS or 2nd baseman, depending on right or left hand batter. I'd guess the batters are trying to hit that hole; and, with not having to hit like that(having to change swing) in decades of playing, I guess they aren't very good at it. As to why implement the 11th in younger groups, the younger groups are using the extra player format in their infields now, may as well give them the 4th outfielder and make the rule uniform. The younger groups are the ones that would do better against the 11 man "D". It will create some outs though and that would quicken up the game. May even help getting more 7 inning games. I've seen several mentions that type rule belongs in the younger age groups, not the older where they need all the help they can muster. Jar, don't you see a lot of teams in the 40's and 50's using the 5 man infield? |
| Nov. 5, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | Thanks a lot of great feedback in favor of the screens! |
| Nov. 6, 2015 19 43 posts | Why do non-pitchers always think pitchers don't want to be able to play defense? |
| Nov. 6, 2015 DieselDan Men's 75 602 posts | The athletic pitchers love playing defense as does their fellow infielders. They can play out in the OF to cut off grounders better and it's any easy throw to the pitcher covering second. |
| Nov. 6, 2015 STL0 Men's 60 231 posts | If you use a screen, the pitcher should not be allowed to field a ground ball (could still be allowed to cover bases for force outs though). You can't have a 5 foot area that you can't hit to and then also allow a pitcher to cover extra area. That doesn't make sense. I personally don't like using them but I understand the concern. |
| Nov. 6, 2015 19 43 posts | The concern could be greatly reduced by using sensible bats for the older, slower ages. |
| Nov. 6, 2015 cheezhed1 Men's 70 47 posts | For those of us that pitch or used to pitch, who haven't been hit by a laser beam line drive, we've been lucky. With the technology in bats, everyone is subject to being "lit up". I know 2 pitchers, one of them a close friend, who were hit in the face and required reconstruction surgery. Both were quality ball players in their 50's and play very competitive softball. We all want to think we are manly men and somewhat bullit proof. The bottom line is we are "SENIORS" and our vision, reaction time and the ability to defend ourselves just isn't what it used to. I, for one, don't want to spend the rest of my life having to adjust my eating habits or endure undo pain because I was too stubborn to either wear a mask or have the protection of a screen. Guys, it's just not worth rolling the dice. All it takes is one well hit ball up the middle and have to go to the emergency to have it surgically removed (LOL). We have all played this game that we love and don't want to end it because of being stubborn. Let's face it, the older we get, the better we used to be! |
| Nov. 6, 2015 19 43 posts | cheezhed, how about if sensible bats are brought into the "SENIOR" game? |
| Nov. 6, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | 19, many time the sensible bats aren't what they seem to be. ;) |
| Nov. 6, 2015 neck10 714 posts | if you use the screen a ball that's hit up the middle and doesn't hit the screen isn't going to be fielded by the pitcher anyway,he isn't going to get to it.we use one in our league doesn't come into play with third baseman's throw to first ,have never seen it hit by an outfielder pitcher is still there for cut. |
| Nov. 6, 2015 neck10 714 posts | jawood how does an extra fielder help the pitcher keep from getting hit.the ball's that would hit him will be caught by screen ,if the screen is 6'6" it's not going to hit him either.it make's more sence than the face mask,it doesn't protect the rest of your body!!!!!!!!!!!!!!and when a pitcher get's hit what's the first thing that team think's let's go after there pitcher!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Nov. 6, 2015 crusher Men's 75 524 posts | 1st, I just do not hit up middle. 2nd, when I moved into the 5th infielder up the middle world of 70's. I found guys that hit up the middle changed to try and hit other openings. A player that can cover some ground and throws good can and has changed the game. I have seen so many double plays, line drive outs in 70's, just game changing. |
| Nov. 6, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | well said cheeseshed, |
| Nov. 6, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | almost every league is going to a screen, for liability issues, the only one not using it is the tourneys, lets see who will be the first, then everyone will follow, |
| Nov. 6, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | At the Villages last month it was optional. If you decided to use it, the screen couldn't be removed until the next inning. I never say anyone use it. |
| Nov. 8, 2015 19 43 posts | There are guys who actually sue someone/anyone after getting hit when (a) they know the risk, (b) they know the crazy bats that are being used, (c) they know the risk, and (d) they missed the ball? |
| Nov. 8, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | I've heard of a couple of times when a law suit was discussed, both times it was determined that the bats were altered. |
| Nov. 8, 2015 FOFO Men's 60 284 posts | I got drilled in the melon while pitching in Western Nationals in Sacramento and I am against using screens in Tournaments. I think it takes away from the game, and as previously stated, pitchers want to play defense. If your going to use a screen you may as well just put a pitching machine out there. JMO |
| Nov. 8, 2015 Ho 301 posts | Believe it or not, law suits are actualy why screens are not used rather than used. A screen is not considered part of the field and if a ball via a throw or hit deflects off the edge of the screen and happens to hit a player in the eye, some softball insurance policies will not cover the injury....because the screen is not part of the field. That said, they have been using the screen in the Barberton Silver League for six years and no players are complaining. We do not use the screen at THEE BUCKEYE CLASSIC due to the insurance "not part of the field" issue. Personally I don't like the screen but I think the problem is more the bats. It is sort of funny to hear people say,"Screens are not part of the game, we should keep playing the way it was meant to be played." I agree, let's use wooden bats the way softball was meant to be played. Ho |
| Nov. 8, 2015 Gorilla Boy Men's 50 271 posts | Hey Ho, good information there. Was not sure on the rules. Now I know why the insurance companies don't allow it. Mighty Mike Macenko |
| Nov. 8, 2015 cal50 Men's 50 328 posts | Mike, looking at the way you are swinging per the video on the other website, I think I would have to have screen if pitching to you. That new big cat in your hands almost looks like a toothpick. |
| Nov. 8, 2015 Gorilla Boy Men's 50 271 posts | Thank You Cal50. Just trying to get it all back together. She is coming. I have never wasted a swing on trying to hit the middle. No matter what the situation is I am always trying to pull the ball. But you never know. You can accidently miss one and not know where it is headed. Ha! Ha! Mighty Mike Macenko aka:Gorilla Boy |
| Nov. 8, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | Ho, not sure your argument will last for long. Are you saying that insurance will not cover an injury involving the orange bag at first? It wasn't part of the "field" 20 years ago. How about chain link fences? When I first started playing, they were not part of the "field"—it was either an open field or a wooden fence. And if someone is injured while standing on the mat at home and it slips out? Not part of the field until 20 years ago. You see my point. It is easy to mandate that a screen IS part of the field, just like different fencing, the mat at home, the extra bag at first, etc. If league rules or tournament rules say a screen is mandatory (as the rules do in my league and have for 16 years) then it is "part of the field". I think a mandated screen is coming to tournament ball as it has already in many rec leagues. It's the only realistic or acceptable solution to cope with the hot bats. It's unfortunate that it doesn't seem to be a likely option for corner infielders. When most senior softball is played with a screen, then tournaments will have to use it or the pitcher won't be covered because the ABSENCE of a screen will not be considered part of a proper field. As to screen interference, as I have posted many times here based on my 16 years of experience pitching with a screen, it is a rare occurrence when a ball thrown from the outfield to home hits the screen (not even once this past year and I play about 100 games a year with a screen) and even rarer when a throw from third hits the screen. Can't remember the last time that happened. On the other hand, it is a rare game when at least one ball doesn't hit the screen from being hit up the middle. |
| Nov. 8, 2015 Ho 301 posts | I think you are stretching it a bit with the orange bags and fencing. However, insurance companies have accepted what you have pointed out as parts of the field (tripping on a bag, running into a fence, etc), a majority do not accept a screen as part of the field. Maybe some do but others do not and more than likely they will have to eventually accept it,. But to play safe use the insurance companies that will insure the use of a screen and avoid the ones which will not. Ho |
| Nov. 9, 2015 Jawood Men's 50 943 posts | neck 10, no, the extra fielder does not PREVENT the pitcher from getting hit. The extra fielder may make the batter think about going a different way, that's all I'm saying. Not very complicated...less hits up the middle, less chance of the pitcher getting hit. |
| Nov. 9, 2015 19 43 posts | Ho, one reason no one is complaining now is because those who don't like the screen stopped playing. But you are 100% correct about the bats. Leagues are being ruined with screens, why tournaments too? Grandfathers really can't live without souped-up bats? :( |
| Nov. 9, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | Wecome back Gary. |
| Nov. 9, 2015 16wood Men's 65 77 posts | I have played in a senior league that uses the screen. I found it a bit odd at first but no one seemed to be bothered by it. When a batted hit the screen it was called a strike... if the hitter already had 2 strikes he was called out. Everyone knew the rules and no one complained (that I saw). Depending upon whether the pitcher was a lefty or a righty... the screen was put in a certain location. There was a fairly large disparity in age and skill level so the screen provided refuge to some of the pitchers. Some pitchers still made plays but half of their territory was taken away. I do recall it ever coming into play on thrown balls... I may have played in 25 games in that league... maybe a small sampling. Use it in tournaments? Perhaps not. The skill level is more consistent (when in the same division). I would like to see it used when the sun is a factor for pitchers in qualifier and local tourneys. I asked about this in January but the TD said that 'SSUSA disallows it'... end of story on that but no one was hurt. I don't really care if they use it in tournaments or not... it's almost a non-issue for me. BW |
| Nov. 9, 2015 cal50 Men's 50 328 posts | I agree with Jawood. 11 on the field would protect the pitcher and it would speed up games. |
| Nov. 9, 2015 16wood Men's 65 77 posts | Correction: I do NOT recall it ever coming into play on thrown balls. BW |
| Nov. 9, 2015 2 posts | Like I said before, we use the screen in league play and I like it, I gives me a place to retreat when pitching to the bigger hitters that usually hit up the middle :). In our league (National) 90% of the players do or would probably play major or major plus. And yes, looks as if Gary has dropped half of his login id. ;) |
| Nov. 18, 2015 OZ40 549 posts | The screen is optional here in Warren, MI in the Monday Night 50 and over league, they leave it up to the pitcher to decide. They've used it for two years now since they've allowed Senior Bats to be used. |
| Nov. 19, 2015 Fred S Men's 85 297 posts | 19: If the screen is the only reason someone doesn't play then he doesn't really want to play anyway. We have been using it for 4 yrs and don't know of anyone that stop playing because of it. We all just adapted to it. |
| Nov. 20, 2015 19 43 posts | Fred, or if he is a pitcher he wants to be able to do what everyone else on the field gets to do. Play defense. How many guys only want to be able to play 1/2 the game? |
| Nov. 20, 2015 JB23-1 2 posts | 19 was the only player to leave our league because of the screen. He came back this year. |
| Nov. 20, 2015 Fred S Men's 85 297 posts | 19: I know what you mean. I was the cause of our league going to screens when I got a line drive just above my left eye. They went to screens the next game and I refused to pitch the rest of the year if I had to use the screen. Next season I thought about it and decided to pitch, as that is what I love doing, and learn to accept the screen. You would be suprised how much fielding the pitcher can still do (depending on the rules in the league) |
| Nov. 20, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | Seems like some people have this picture that adding a screen near the pitcher results in the pitcher huddling behind the screen once he releases the ball. Maybe even with his eyes shut? It's not like that at all. I have been pitching with a screen for 15 years as it is mandated by my league. I didn't like it at first because I wasn't used to it. Now it doesn't matter to me whether there is a screen or not. I still play plenty of defense. I still gather in popups. I still field ground balls up the middle; even if I am behind the screen because of a powerful middle hitter, I still snag the occasional ground ball near the screen. I still field line drives to the left, above, and right of screen. I still cover first on any ground ball to the right side. I still back up the appropriate base on singles or fly balls. I still occasionally cover second when my infielders are playing deep. I still cover home on balls that get away from the catcher. There is lots of defense left for any pitcher who wants to be active, screen or not. I understand that some leagues mandate that the pitcher CANNOT field after he pitches, but must stand behind the screen. In my mind, this is overprotective and unnecessary. I would protest such a rule. |
| Nov. 21, 2015 17Black Men's 60 414 posts | I am going to agree with Omar's comments ^^^ above. When screens came to our local leagues a few years ago I was totally against it, both as a part time pitcher and as a player. There are three weeknight senior leagues near me in Cleveland right now, two use screens, one does not, but the league that doesn't does not allow senior bats (its GSL rules) and has guys from 50 to in their 70's playing. I have seen every variation possible I think to "rules" with a screen in play. From rules like the pitcher is not allowed to touch a batted ball hit up the middle (if he does its an automatic double) which was DUMB as just reflexes of somebody sticking a glove out on a hot shot became automatic doubles. What a dumb rule on a slow grounder or pop up in the infield that was. There were rules if you hit the screen as a batter, your out. I've seen it as a "strike", I've seen it as a "dead ball" (Nothing, not a ball or a strike) I've also seen a lot of potential double plays not be double plays because the pitcher couldn't touch a medium hit ball up the middle or the ball hit the darn screen too. I've seen it "ball in play" (if it hits the screen or the frame play it like normal) All I know is my 50 Major Tournament team played in Fort Myers a couple weeks ago and both of my pitchers got beaned multiple times (they are very good athletes) one still can barely walk and the others hand and wrist got blasted pretty bad, swelled up purple on his glove hand, & he can't barely hold a bat. Quite frankly I see this in almost every tournament game we play, from both teams, and it doesn't matter how much goalie gear the guys have on. Guys still get hurt. I Don't have any problem with guys hitting the middle, as I have rarely seen somebody do it on purpose to take the pitcher out (although I suspect a couple guys have) This tournament in Florida of all places, had record high temps and 90% + humidity. I feel horrible for the guys wearing helmets and chest gear and shin guards in those conditions, on top of being similar to the duck in the shooting gallery. Maybe a screen in use could make the protective gear optional then?? One league I played in last year finally allowed pitchers to field the middle with the screen, no penalties, and if the ball hit the screen ONCE it was a dead ball and the 2nd time an automatic out. Pitchers get to field the middle like normal. There really aren't that many balls a game that hit the screen, but when they have, the pitchers that took advantage of the net were spared some serious injuries. Other pitchers have used the screen as an "extra player" where when they pitch they jump out to the left or the right to field a ball based on where they pitched it------but I'm actually fine with that. After playing this game for 35 years and being used to no screen in tournaments, certainly it would be weird to have them. But I honestly think the time has come where it needs to be considered. Once you play with a screen, as other posters above have stated, you just get used to it. I really don't think the bats and balls are going anywhere? One senior league I play in allows senior bats but went to a 52/300 ball and it "seems" fair-----it still goes out for homers, but the homers are legitimate, not by accident, or by guys who probably shouldn't be hitting homers with a 44/375 or other?? |
| Nov. 21, 2015 miken44 90 posts | 17 sorry to hear about your pitchers 17 and i both play in a 50 and over in the same league and have seen some balls hit up the middle that some guys would not of caught and the screen saved them including myself whether it is time to use them in tournaments or not is something that will happen when a pitcher is laying on his back bleeding and having a hard time breathing then it may be to late guys hit the middle and that is part of the game that we have played for a long time i for one would not like visit a friend or be visited in a hospital the screen would protect wearing all kind of gear in steaming hot weather is not good for any body |
| Nov. 22, 2015 OlyPenSenior 21 posts | I pitch and generally would be against a screen being required. But, I do see it as a safety measure to protect the less athletic pitchers. If one is required, let's specify the dimensions. A 24" width X 60" height should be big enough to provide ample protection, yet not be in the way too much. This "small" screen would be acceptable to me. |
| Nov. 22, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | OlyPenSenior, I wish it were only the less athletic pitchers that would benefit from a screen, but as 17Black points out, both of his pitchers who got beaned are "very good athletes". I've pitched without a screen for 62 years (except when mandated or looking into a low sun). I am a better than average fielder for my age. But I, along with every other pitcher I know, has been hit more than once by a pitch up the middle…and moreso as we have aged. Reflexes slow down; bats get hotter; eyesight is less sharp; plus the inevitable factors of sun in the face, distraction, inattention, sweat in the eyes or on the eyeglasses, etc. And when I say we have aged, I mean I was a less effective fielder at 50 than I was at 40. It just goes with life. The alarm being raised is a consequence of the ungodly hot bats that get bragged about again and again on this site—the composites that extend the range and ball speed when used, even by the average player. |
| Nov. 22, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | Thanks for the great comments, looks like the majority agree with me, stay healthy my friends |
| Nov. 23, 2015 19 43 posts | The little I have played with one I have lost more opportunities for potential double plays by having balls hit the screen. Fielding for the pitcher is just NOT the same with it. |
| Nov. 23, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | 19, I agree that fielding for the pitcher is not the same with a screen. It's a shame that the hot bats have resulted in mandated screens, and in SSUSA, mandated face masks (and for awhile, mandated shin guards). If seniors were still playing with single wall aluminum bats, all of this would not be much of an issue. But hot bats are here to stay, due to the ego of older guys, so protection rules will only become more stringent, in my opinion, including mandated screens in tournaments in the next few years. And then we will be looking for ways to protect corner infielders. |
| Nov. 24, 2015 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | I have also played both with screens and without. I do not believe you will find a single M+ pitcher that would want it, as they are usually excellent fielders and love playing the position and making a difference with the glove too. Our league does play with screens and I am FULLY in favor of that as there is quite a disparity between some tournament players and some league players. I would NEVER go at a pitcher on purpose, but in the course of a year an outside pitch with 2 strikes, a bad swing, bad pitch selection, for me trying to take a ball out of the park to left center and getting a bit over the top of it, and of course, trying to go either side of the pitcher to hit a hole left by infielders and mistiming it just a bit can all result in a shot near the pitcher-and all by accident. By the way, Omar, I have been playing third base this year at M+ and did experiment with a rip-it-absolutely hated it-visibility down, when I drooled it would get the mouth guard wet (LOL) and just felt in the way. I might try shin guards if I can find some that are light and easy to put on. |
| Nov. 24, 2015 southernson 280 posts | I live in Florida, I pitch, and I hate the screens. First, they are a PITA, another piece of equipment to plop in the field and get in the way. The double play eliminator is what it should be called. Another piece of crap to block that throw to home from the middle part of the outfield and cost you the game. It happens every tournament, every weekend. Have I been hit? Of course, everywhere, multiple times. Do some guys target the pitcher? Of course, I've got two or three that do it routinely, it's their way of trying to get a hit and we all know it. But do I want to don a hockey mask to go play softball? Do I want to hide behind the double play eliminator? Nope, I just want to play softball....and leave the masks and screens behind. Now someone is going to tell me the story about so-n-so got hit, and if the mask or the screen.... Look guys were getting hit with the old double walls, guys were getting hit with the Easton, guys are going to get hit on the mound, you think it didn't hurt then??? It's part of the game, just like double plays up the middle used to kill an inning, but thankfully we have the screen there now to make sure that doesn't happen anymore. And the mask to protect us because no one is going to hit up the middle if we are wearing the mask, right. Yeah, right....that thought process worked out well. Truthfully, it's hurt the integrity of the game, and I miss it. You ripped it out without even a vote....and that's the facts. Your fear of lawsuits eclipsed your reason and respect for the game. Damn shame... |
| Nov. 24, 2015 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | Southernson-you hit the nail on the head for a lot of us. Fear of lawsuits. The worst facial injury I ever saw was in 1978-with an old piece of metal aluminum bat on a shot that hit the rubber and deflected up into a guys face. It has always been part of the game. But the fear that some guy that 'didn't realize the risks'--YEA, RIGHT!' is going to sue someone is so prevalent it is ruining the game. I play third base now. Any at bat a guy could hit a bad hop ground ball or a knuckle ball line drive that could hit me. Will I sue? HECK, NO! I could probably wear Goalies equipment to ensure I wouldn't get hit. Crap! Man up!It is part of the game. And EVERY guy that plays knows it. |
| Nov. 24, 2015 19 43 posts | Webbie, I believe you but personally don't know of anyone who has ever sued anyone over an injury. I guess it happens, I just haven't seen it myself. |
| Nov. 24, 2015 rightrj1 Men's 55 286 posts | Screens are nice for BP, but that's about it, as far as I'm concern. I think the hardest part about pitching is bending over for the low ground balls. I took a nice shot to the ankle / shin this past weekend in Phoenix, then the next 5 guys preceded to hit the middle also! that PISSED me off more then getting hit! I would prefer the choice of using the mask also, I personally feel the mask gets more in the way then protection, but I guess I would have to take one to the face to really know..LOL (Hope it doesn't happen) My 2 Cents.. |
| Nov. 24, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | Webbie, you are correct on the rubber deflections. With the advent of the pitchers box, there is no need for a rubber. They should be removed for tournaments; then replaced afterwards to leave the field playable for local intended usage. With not having to keep a pivot foot in contact with said rubber based on current rules, it's just another posssible cause for a pitcher injury. Eliminate it! |
| Nov. 24, 2015 OZ40 549 posts | Maybe a few small tournaments with a screen option are in order to gauge response. |
| Nov. 26, 2015 OlyPenSenior 21 posts | Regarding the rubber, it is a fielding hazard. So, I make sure it is fully covered and the playing surface around it is filled-in before throwing my first pitch each inning. I've read thru this entire thread and see valid points on both sides of the screen issue. I too enjoy fielding the position and find the screen to be an obstruction. But, the trump card for me is the hot bats. Batted balls come back very fast from the big hitters and there is a very short reaction time. If a minimal sized screen helps keep the pitcher healthy, then I'm for them. And, some batters just tend to hit the ball up the middle. I don't take offense to it. We all know there is a lot of open space there without the 11th fielder and a line drive could split the outfielders for extra bases while chasing runners home. Just part of the game. |
| Nov. 26, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | Oly, I always do my best to fill in and level the rubber where I can, but there are situations where multi use fields have several rubbers and not enough dirt to make a safe situation, especially where the baseball kiods pitch from. There are fields where the rubber has been pounded in and the bottom of the rubber is flush with the ground, no way to level that situation. I've got a roller bag, but don't feel I should have to bring shovel etc. to make the mound area safer. In the name of safety, with no purpose for our game, I see no need to keep ones that could cause injury in place. If they are flush with the ground and toe hole can be leveled, play on. |
| Nov. 27, 2015 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | rightrj-You are right that the next 5 were also close to you. As dark as that field was, I also felt it was on purpose. But the need to win is stronger in some, and they will try at all costs. By the way, it was great getting a chance to play with you, for one tourney at least. With the demise of Joe Brown's All Stars, I guess we will have to wait for another chance with another team. Curveball, I first wrote USSSA and ASA about this in the 80's and wrote them for many years after without ever gaining traction. It can't be that hard to make a removable rubber. I think people are too lazy to want to make the change. |
| Nov. 27, 2015 curveball Men's 65 705 posts | Web, deaf ears huh? Not surprised. Some don't think it's a big deal, but I don't hear of many infielders asking to have a rubber installed in front the their fielding area! If we still had to maintain contact with said rubber, I'd have no gripe. But it serves no purpose and should be considered a safety hazard. |
| Nov. 27, 2015 Webbie25 Men's 70 2414 posts | It would have to be a phasing in, as the fields are the ones to make the change, not SSUSA. But if they made it a requirement by, say 2018, maybe it could be done. I think it is a significant safety issue, at least equal to the issue that resulted in the advent of the orange bag at first. |
| Nov. 27, 2015 19 43 posts | So everyone is saying if the rubber is removed than the screen can be too? |
| Nov. 27, 2015 SS13 40 posts | Not exactly sure how I feel about screens, I still play young man's ball and saw two pitchers get drilled this yr to the extent that they may never play again and have faced many doctors bills and alot of time off work. While i pitch and also understand it is part of the game, I also understand that we all need to go to work and play for the love of the game. I do think it really sucks that the guys that I know that hit middle only on purpose would never even think about pitching. They say I'm crazy for standing that close. |
| Nov. 28, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | Ever seen an infielder plunked by a bad bounce? Sure, we all have—it's part of softball and hard to eliminate, although artificial turf infields greatly reduces the occurrence of a bad bounce, as do well groomed infields. I doubt there is any pitcher with more than 20 years experience who hasn't been injured by a ball striking the rubber. The opportunity to adjust to a hop off the rubber is almost nil. I've even been injured by a medium-speed batted grounder hitting the rubber and flying up into me. You are in position, your glove is down, and then the ball comes at a crazy angle off the rubber. On artificial infields, the problem is eliminated since the rubber is painted on (with the exception of the fields in Medford, Oregon—beautiful artificial fields which some dumb decision caused to be outfitted with raised rubbers nailed down!). Eliminated the rubber is a great safety idea and it's time has come in senior softball where you don't have to be in contact with a rubber to deliver a pitch. This has nothing to do with the safety of using a screen where the danger is not grounders or bad hops, but a ball coming at you with speeds up to 95 mpg and trying to cope with aging reflexes and eyes. |
| Nov. 29, 2015 Tmac26 9 posts | As a pitcher I wouldn't like it if they added the screens because it is in the way if you move around at all pitching. I think if they were going to change anything for pitchers safety they should allow a pitcher to pitch from as far back as possible as long as you are within the pitching rubber with one foot within the line going back toward second base. There are a lot of position players that get hit more than the pitcher. Do you put screens in front of them?(NO) |
| Nov. 29, 2015 TheCat43 Men's 55 26 posts | This has been an interesting thread to read with some excellent points regarding stupid rules imposed with the screen, the intensity of the batted balls, our slowing reflexes, OUR EGOS, and BIG MONEY... We seniors are close to being the last of the old school who learned to play prior to the game changing bats and balls which resulted in the defense continuously getting smoked. More and more players don't understand the original concepts of "getting in front of the ball" and "most little guys don't hit home runs." With players' egos, bat manufacturers profit margins, and associations need to keep players interested in their particular organization, "Rocket Ball" is now the new norm. With the heaping advantage given to the offense, what has been done to level the game defensively? NOT MUCH! 30 run games, limits on runs per innings, and face masks - what does that tell you about the offensive advantage. We are all older, slower, don't want to get hurt, and hopefully, still take pride in our defense. Therefore, we have this interesting debate over what should be done. We all agree, "SOMETHING." With the various player interests, no one answer will make everybody happy. Remember though, pitchers want to be safe, and they want to participate defensively; however they have different levels of skills and ability. With that said, here are some thoughts regarding the use of a screen: Aside from insurance issues, screens seem to be a good "safety" idea for those who choose to use them. The field of play is huge compared to the size of a 3x7 screen. Good hitters deserving a hit should be able to hit around or over it. Oh yes, thrown balls rarely hit a screen. Allow a pitcher to place a screen anywhere from in front of the rubber to near the back six-foot mark. Also allow it to be placed to either side with an edge touching the outside rubber line. NOTE: Placing the screen to one side may actually advantage the batter to a degree as it telegraphs which way the pitcher would jump if there were no screen. But, it could also make him change his swing - strategy... Allow the pitcher to field; however, he MUST start from behind the screen when the ball is hit. This allows a batter to smoke one side or the other, while rightfully allowing a pitcher to go after poorly batted balls. Hitting the screen is a live ball - do with it what you can. It may stop in front, allowing the pitcher to get it...or not. Or, it may ricochet for a hit or for an out to another player. This is a safer ricochet than one off of the rubber or a base. Interesting topic... Safety first... |
| Nov. 29, 2015 cronin51 Men's 55 20 posts | Be careful what you ask for, as a retired fireman of 36 years one thing that is for sure, if it is done in the name of safety it will never be undone. I pitch during BP we use a screen. Personally opposed to screen in play. I have my fair share of dart marks on my chest, belly and the broken and bruised fingers. Sometimes you let one leak out over the plate to a ground ball hitter in hopes of the come backer double play. With the screen that part of the strategy of the game is gone. A few of the marks and injury were the player that hits grounders and tagged one and me. Oh well sometimes we outsmart ourselves. Play safe and have fun. |
| Nov. 29, 2015 TheCat43 Men's 55 26 posts | cronin: I definitely see your point, but don't get me wrong. I'm just throw'n it out there for those who need it. I'm not asking for it nor would I use it. I believe that it is a serious disadvantage for the minority of pitchers who can truly field their positions very well. Being stuck behind that thing would prevent double plays at the pitcher. More important, it would prevent a quality pitcher from throwing a designed pitch and cheating in that direction. Those negatives actually advantage the offense - The defensive team has that choice to make. With that said, it would protect the remaining 90% who get smoked on a somewhat regular basis. It would give them an opportunity to compete, yet remain safe without penalizing the offense. But again, it should not be forced. I would be against that. |
| Nov. 29, 2015 Tmac26 9 posts | As a pitcher I wouldn't like it if they added the screens because it is in the way if you move around at all pitching. I think if they were going to change anything for pitchers safety they should allow a pitcher to pitch from as far back as possible as long as you are within the pitching rubber with one foot within the line going back toward second base. There are a lot of position players that get hit more than the pitcher. Do you put screens in front of them?(NO) |
| Nov. 30, 2015 TheCat43 Men's 55 26 posts | Tmac: Also as a pitcher, I am with you. I will not use a screen anytime within the near future. With that said, I would not object to a pitcher, and team which allows it for him, to use it. If a screen prolongs a person;s career on the mound by keeping him safer, what's the harm. At our age, some people who can still pitch have naturally declined. While still tough competitors, they lack the speed to adequately protect themselves. They need it. Again, a screen would hinder the defense much more than the offense. I just would not want it to be a blanket rule which is forced on everyone else. That would be wrong. It must be an OPTION or it gets a "NO" vote. |
| Nov. 30, 2015 Punch Men's 60 18 posts | I pitched for over 35 years. I gave it up earlier this year, due to the fact that I do not feel safe on the mound facing this new crop of hot bats and balls. I am now 69 and my reflexes are not what they used to be. Give me the option of using a screen, and I will gladly be willing to go back in and pitch again. Over the course of my career, I have suffered a broken leg, shattered ribs broken fingers, and numerous bruises from batted balls. The majority of them, I attributed to poor lighting conditions, bad skips off the rubber, bad hops, and rocket shots that I could not react quick enough to protect myself. I now play the easy and safe position at short stop. Third base is not bad either, as long as you play deep. I feel that the use of a screen would be a major improvement in pitcher safety,especially in the 65 and up age groups. |
| Nov. 30, 2015 TheCat43 Men's 55 26 posts | I think the rules stated in my first post would be great for the older brackets. |
| Dec. 1, 2015 southernson 280 posts | Webbie, If safety of the players is truly an issue, then removing the rubber would be an issue. A removable rubber, I like it. (No jokes please, OK, I'm laughing myself). Actually it is a good idea as that's how I've seen most injuries on the mound occur. Phasing them in makes a lot of sense, and the construction is easy to imagine. |
| Dec. 1, 2015 19 43 posts | Gentlemen, "If safety of the players is truly an issue" then the bats would be adjusted to reflect their use by the oldest, slowest group still playing the game. Any short of that is just window dressing. |
| Dec. 1, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | Just like a dangerous intersection, nothing is done till its to late, looks like the majority are for it, have a few screen tournaments for the majority of us chickens, that don't have the broken bones to show for it, just because there is a screen it would be the pitchers choice on wether he wants to stand behind it or not |
| Dec. 1, 2015 OZ40 549 posts | The individual team should supply their own screen (as long as it doesn't cover the entire infield). Here's why: It would be cost prohibitive to supply screens for every diamond. Also, legally speaking, everyone enters the field assuming a certain degree of risk. However if a safety device is provided by an association or complex and it malfunctions resulting in injury, here come the trial lawyers. |
| Dec. 1, 2015 OlyPenSenior 21 posts | Again, if a screen will be required (which I think will happen) let's define the dimensions. Make it as small as feasibly possible, but still give some shelter to the pitcher. I propose 30" X 60" placed just in front of the rubber (to eliminate that deflection problem). Any larger and it does tend to get in the way. Also, the pitcher needs to be able to field all hit balls that don't hit the screen. Then, we need to decide what to do with the ones that do hit it. Just like a foul ball? Okay by me. |
| Dec. 1, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | OZ40, I don't think screens are cost prohibitive at all. I play in a league that mandates a screen, so screens are used for about 200 games a year. A good quality screen (only costs $300) lasts easily in top shape for five years, and even after that is functional for another five years with some repair work (new netting, new bolts, etc.). A tournament will typically have 15 games on one field for a weekend (6 teams). For a venue hosting only one senior tournament a year with mandated screens, a new screen will last 67 years at a cost of $4.50 a tournament or 30¢ a game. Very affordable. Of course, popular tournament venues will have more than one senior tournament a year, and the initial cost will be more substantial, but the math is the same. For the life of a screen, it costs 30¢ a game!!! Very affordable and a minute portion of a tournament fee. If the screen life is doubled (at a cost of about $50.00 in repairs), then the cost will be 18¢ a game!!! As to safety liability, there is very little liability with a properly maintained screen. The major liability is a ricochet off the frame of the screen. Secondarily, a net that should have been replaced might tear on a hard line drive, but that goes back to proper maintenance. There is likely no more liability that a base improperly secured or slackened by wet conditions, or a home plate that slides under the catcher, or a dugout with a rusty wire scratching a shin, etc. |
| Dec. 2, 2015 neck10 714 posts | the screen needs to be 6'6" you don't want that ball hitting the top bar and then hitting you in the eye ,don't worry about any ball passing the screen ,the pitcher won't be fast enough to get to thos anyway.we have a screen in our league it cost $160.00 (I donated it to league)work's great every once in a while someone will hit it,but not often.sure open's the middle up,you can go there with no fear of ever hitting anyone. |
| Dec. 2, 2015 neck10 714 posts | papa who do you kno that can throw the ball that far.I pitch in our league your pitcher is your cut off man only comes in play from center field.we have used the screen for five yr's haven't seen anyone hit it yet from the defence side. |
| Dec. 2, 2015 jfsully 82 posts | When people have talked about other fielders being injured from bad hops etc there are acouple of issue that are being missed. There is a limit on reaction time of human beings and the pitcher is substantially closer to the batter than any other fielder. This reaction times tends to increase with age. From our pitching distance it stretches the ability of human beings to react especially given our "hot" senior bats and/or "hotter" balls. Here are a couple of studies : http://my.llfiles.com/00260735/223.full.pdf http://thesportjournal.org/article/a-composite-softball-bat-revolution-why-the-pitcher-has-little-time-to-react-to-a-batted-ball/ |
| Dec. 2, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | jfsully, good points. Here's another: In my years of tournament experience, I have noticed that the pitcher is often one of the older players on his team. A good pitcher, by which I mean an accurate pitcher, is very valuable and will often be asked to play with younger teams or stay on when other teammates move up to the next age bracket. A very good pitcher, one who is not just accurate but deceptive/high or low arc/very good fielder is regularly sought by younger teams. I know a left-handed pitcher, for example, who plays with a team 15 years his junior. It's not for his bat, which is average for his age, but for his pitching skill. The result: younger, stronger batters are hitting potential shots at a pitcher who is older than most of them are, which means slower reflexes and diminished eyesight. The hot bats are not just less safe for a pitcher on a team because of closer difference (my third baseman plays from 85 feet away!), but because pitchers are older than most of their peers on a team or in a bracket. In our rec league, we have three pitchers who are 30 years older than some of the younger players, and two pitchers who are 25 years older!! It's possible because screens are mandated for our mixed age rec teams. |
| Dec. 2, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | In any sport you have your keys to a good team, hockey goalie, football quarterback, and so on, i am 62, have been running a team since we turned 50, we started at 50, went to 55, then 60 and probably should play 65, chicago prime, every year when planning our roster number one priority was pitchers, then go from there, if we didnt have pitching we didnt have a team, we pulled out of tournaments with 14 guys but one or none pitchers that weekend, because no one will pitch unless you are one, this year i am retiring from tournament ball and just going to pitch in local leauges and have fun and not worry about getting hit, more and more of us are doing it, glen hall goalie for the blackhawks threw up before evey game knowing what was coming, know they have masks better equipment, etc, off my soapbox, im done good health to everyone |
| Dec. 2, 2015 nickols 3 posts | Played in a league last winter where screen was mandatory. But screen was set up half way in-between home plate and pitching rubber, so it was hard to see the plate when pitching and hard to see the ball coming in when batting. Would much rather pitch from side of screen, then move to get behind it. I suggest using a "pitch safe" screen, and be able to move it to where ever the pitcher wants it. Dead ball if it hits the screen. |
| Dec. 3, 2015 southernson 280 posts | neck10, Never seen a throw from the outfield hit a screen? Come to Florida, it happens EVERY weekend. |
| Dec. 3, 2015 jfsully 82 posts | I believe (not totally sure) that after the ball is hit, it is legal for the screen to be placed on the ground (knoccked over), so it does not interfere with a throw from a fielder. |
| Dec. 3, 2015 DBurke23 Men's 50 22 posts | I play Florida Half Century. I have played 7 full tournaments this year plus 1 game in August (rained out the other 3). That's 29 games and a ball in play hit the screen ONCE !! Not an issue. If the screen prevents 1 serious injury then it's justified. |
| Dec. 4, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | In our rec league in California, there are mixed ages, so we have older guys as well as young 50 studs. Thus, a screen has been mandatory for many years. We play from 100 to 140 games a year, depending on rainy weather (not much the last few years) and among the younger guys, there are several outfielders who can throw from 240 feet and reach home plate on the fly! And there are tons of other outfielders who are playing weaker hitters in close, sometimes from only 175 feet, and many of them can reach home on the fly. We have an outfielder's throw hit the screen about once a year. What size monster screens do they have in Florida where a throw hits the screen 50 times a year?!! Or aren't the pitchers allowed to cut off the throw? |
| Dec. 4, 2015 Tmac26 9 posts | The CAT43, I agree with you but I think it should be an option. I would like to see the 10' behind the mound moved back to 20' to help protect the pitchers. |
| Dec. 6, 2015 TheCat43 Men's 55 26 posts | Tmac: We are on the same page. My 11/29 post lists reasonable rules which allows a pitcher to participate. Although undecided, my "knee jerk" reaction is to agree that a pitcher should be able to get back as far as he can. With that said, I like to think that I can pitch, but I'll say, "I can't hold a candle to you if you can consistently throw strikes from 20' behind the rubber - WOW!" The further back you get, the harder it is to throw a "good" strike. That's why I don't necessarily disagree about letting pitchers try from farther back... If they can... |
| Dec. 7, 2015 Yank1 Men's 50 6 posts | BruceinGa; let me know if you guys are going to hit so i can join you. Thanks, Yank |
| Dec. 7, 2015 BruceinGa Men's 70 3233 posts | You've got it Bob! Send my your email address and cell number to me at b_fairchild@hotmail.com We will probably hit if it's over 60 degrees. |
| Dec. 23, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | NOW BECAUSE SOME DONT WANT SCREENS THE LEAUGES ARE GOING SINGLE WALL BATS AND CRAPPY BALLS |
| Dec. 23, 2015 UMBACH 68 posts | OUR 50 AND OVER LEAUGE WENT TO SUCH CRAPPY BALLS THAT GUYS WHO PLAY TOURNENYS WE HIT TWO HOMERUNS ON 280 FOOT FENCES ALL YEAR OUT OF 21 GAMES |
| Dec. 24, 2015 SAH 7 posts | Just thought I'd chime in on a very interesting topic. I played softball most of my life, from 15 on until now. I've seen pitchers hit, infact when I first started softball hitting middle was key and hitting a pitcher every now and then was a badge of honor...but that was in the 80's. The bats were aluminum and even though the balls were good, I never saw a seriuous injury. Fast forward to todays game with the composite bats, and God forbid the senior bats, and it's a total different story. On a side note, in many games today if somebody even just comes close to the pitcher everyone gets angry because todays games produces some really bad injurys due to the advanced technology of the bats. Once you reach 50+ just playing the game is a great accomplishment. Why run the risk of getting blown up on the mound...senior bats plus bad bat control and slower relexes equals an increased potential of injury to the pitcher. Using a screen just makes sence. We all can still hit the crap out of the ball with the juiced up senior bats, but if one miss hit heads toward the pitcher whos reflexes just aren't quite what they used to be, disaster could be the result. Why take the chance ? In senior slow pitch softball the guy on the mound is just serving it up to us, so why not protect him/her ? There are a handfull of pitchers with the relexes to make a difference and don't need a screen...but there are like 75% who just don't move or field like they used to. Don't let ego get in the way of safety. Use the screen for safety, if you hit the screen you are out. Just remember, when the ball is being lobbed to you, I have confidence that most hitters can hit the ball and not hit the screen. In the end, the result is a pitcher who is safe and can pitch with confidence...and hitters who can tee off and not worry about hurting ANYONE!!!! |
| Dec. 24, 2015 19 43 posts | SAH, If all your pitcher is doing is "serving it up", find a new pitcher! You really want safety, reduce the bats. Anything else is just empty lip service. |
| Dec. 24, 2015 SAH 7 posts | 19, "If all your pitcher is doing is "serving it up", find a new pitcher!" At 58 I can still hit the ball pretty hard, and it doesn't matter how good your pitcher is, it just takes one "mishap". There are some very good fielding pitchers like I said, but I think once past 50 versus the "senior bat" and guys that can still "crush" the ball...it would be a prudent idea to protect the pitchers. By using the screen everyone can just swing away without worrying if you accidently hit one at the pitcher...the result could be in a retalliation, or a middles war, or the worst of all a pitcher getting hit. "You really want safety, reduce the bats." I'll always support reducing the bats. Since the advent of the composite bat, the game is more dangerous. My point is we are all getting older. Might be a good idea to lean on the safety side of the equation. Again, all this is just my thoughts on it. at least we agree with the bats nowadays being a bit unsafe for the man in the middle. |
| Dec. 25, 2015 Omar Khayyam 1357 posts | SAH, good points. But it is not just getting older. It is also the ability level where a team plays. Sure, in the Major Plus, they get a pitcher who is pretty accurate, who can vary the height, who can pitch short or deep, and, hopefully, one who can defend himself on a ball up the middle. But most senior softball guys DON"T play at the highest level. And in my years of experience playing Major and AAA, a pitcher is not necessarily a great fielder. We carry three pitchers on my team. Most teams have at least two. There are more than 100 teams in my association in northern California. Let's say there are 250 pitchers. If they are good fielders, they might be needed in the infield, not pitching. For most of those teams, what they want in a pitcher is one who doesn't walk many, if any, opponents in a game. It seems to be O.K. just to "serve it up" and let the defense work, as long as a gratuitous walk is not given. From watching most of these northern California teams over the years, the Major Plus level pitcher with excellent attributes is a rarity in lower levels. And of course, the batters are not necessarily any more skilled and a lot of them don't have the bat control to not hit it up the middle, especially if the pitch is over the outside corner. Result: lots of pitchers get hit or experience near misses, because the batters are swinging hard with a composite bat. If you want safety, go back to single walls. I'd do it readily, and a lot of men I know who have stopped playing senior softball because of the hot bats would return. Not just for safety reasons, but because the hot bat has changed to game to favor offense at the expense of defense, and they got disgusted with the game (especially when pipsqueaks like me can hit the long ball). |
| Dec. 26, 2015 SAH 7 posts | Omar, I'd love to see the return of single wall bats. It would be great to see the game come back to playing defence, singles hitters hitting their spots, and the big guys hitting their bombs. The game is scarey now a days, the composite bat especially the senior composite is definitely a game changer....and raises many safety issues. It's a shame so many have walked away form the game they loved, but with safety being a big factor....I don't blame them. After all it's just a recreational sport. If we can make the game more reasonable by either going back to single wall bats or using a screen to protect the pitcher it's definitely worth exploring. Maybe many would return to the game, and let's face it...this would be great for softball!!!! Cheers and happy holidays. |
