This Astros madness isn't going away anytime soon. In a weird way, it's made baseball so much more interesting at this time of year with players around the league speaking out in a way they haven't before.
Could this be a seminal moment in the honesty of the professional baseball player? It's easier to be this open when everyone agrees with you, but if the result is on-camera honesty from even a few more players — stars or not — baseball will be better for it. One of the major reasons for the NBA's popularity is that you can have an off-court conversation every day of the year. There's so much drama. Baseball doesn't really have that, especially from its stars and especially when games aren't being played.
At Phillies camp Tuesday morning, John Clark noticed this hilarious sign from a young fan:
The William Hill sportsbook on Monday set its over/under on Astros beanings at 83.5. Seems very low. The Astros were hit by a pitch 66 times in 2019 and this would be only 18 more. Based on how angry the rest of the league is, based on how much respect almost every interviewed player is saying he's lost for the Astros ... how can you not lean over?
Now, the under could hit if MLB makes clear that it will be harshly punishing any pitcher who intentionally hits an Astro. But that would open up two giant cans of worms. Players will flip out that they're being suspended while the Astros got off scot free. And managers and pitching coaches will be furious that they can't pitch inside because of the risk of unintentionally hitting an Astro.
The 2020 season will be so fascinating. The Astros might be better off going full NWO and embracing the hate. What other choice do they have?
MLB
Subscribe and rate Phillies Talk:
Apple Podcasts / Google Play / Spotify / Stitcher / Art19
More on the Phillies
-
Checking in on Phillies’ division rivals as camps fully open
-
Andrew McCutchen feels good, but will he be ready for opening day?
-
Realmuto feeling ‘blessed’ as he heads into arbitration showdown with Phillies
-
On 1st day, Joe Girardi asks Phillies to give him their hearts -- and their trots
-
Jean Segura hopes better lifestyle choices equal better season in 2020