Jeez…who the hell would’ve thought this story would even be, well, a story, let alone a 3 day discussion? Yeah, on Wednesday Jose Reyes hit a big 3 run bomb and had his finger in the air while rounding 2nd. While I am a fan of just going about your business, I don’t think it was that big of a deal. If you haven’t seen it, check it out here.
Probably the funniest description I’ve heard regarding this play was from Mike Francessa, who said it reminded him of a little kid playing ‘airplane’ running around the bases — pretty funny… The Phillies didn’t think so, however. Charlie Manuel said, “When we retaliate against things, I’m all for that.” He didn’t stop there… He also said, “A good fight never hurt nobody.” Ryan Madson, who was pitching when Reyes hit the homer, didn’t take offense at the Reyes celebration but saw it more as an overall attitude of this Met team. He said, “That’s the way that team is — they’re going to do that.” This has a little bit of the feel of the tension the Mets and the rest of the league and, in particular, the Cardinals had back in ‘86. Madson was also asked if there’s general dislike for the Mets and he replied, “That’s a fair statement. Yes.”
It didn’t end there…I saved the best for last. The Phillies broadcaster and former reliever Larry Andersen actually called for retaliation in the worst form. He said, while on the air, “Somebody ought to put one in his neck.” Yeah, and they say the Mets are classless.
What’s my take on all of this? Well, I think it’s just the nature of the player in this era. There’s no way half of the stuff players from all teams do, after accomplishing what they’re supposed to, would fly back in the 60’s, 70’s or even 80’s. It’s partially to be blamed on the lack of policing that the players can do as if you throw near a batter, you run the risk of getting a warning and, in turn, hampering your ability to throw to the inner half, lest you be thrown out if one slips. Plus, these guys get to wear nearly a suit of armor at the plate. Look at what Barry Bonds used to wear — or Benny Agbayani…I remember he had the largest elbow pad I’ve ever seen.
I also think it’s very unfair to Reyes that he gets scrutiny for this sort of stuff. Granted, he does the majority of hopping and jumping but that is his personality. It’s also a part of what makes him so exciting to watch! He’s a little ‘fidgety’ I guess. :) But, if you’re going to target Reyes, you HAVE to also take into account some of the other celebrations. How many times have I seen Wright come home on a big play and do that signature punching motion that reminds me of an umpire calling a runner out at home. Maybe a little over the top. If you want to look at someone who should be dusted, check out Tatis. I mean, with his sideways bunny hop and standing on the plate while pointing up at the sky for, what seems like, a minute. That should get him plunked — no doubt.
The thing is, it’s done all over. From Jimmy Rollins with his pointing to the sky while standing on second after driving in the go ahead runs on Tuesday to Manny Ramirez pointing with both fingers out to center (or at Rivera) after hitting a bomb out of Fenway. It’s the nature of the game today.
Oh, and maybe those Phillies players should worry about their own locker room and buy J. Roll a watch. Maybe he can get to Shea on time and not be benched in a very important game.
Let’s Go Mets!
