Braves’ Whit Merrifield Furious Over Dangerous Pitches, Calls It ‘Bulls–t’ in Heated Post-Game Reaction..
Braves second baseman Whit Merrifield expressed his anger over being hit by pitches in a recent game. After taking a fastball to the head on September 3, 2024, he criticized modern pitching practices. Merrifield’s comments reflect growing concerns about player safety in Major League Baseball.
His frustration highlights a troubling trend in the game, with more players getting injured by pitches. Merrifield’s remarks come as he joins a list of Braves players affected by similar incidents.
Key takeaways:
- Whit Merrifield was hit in the head by a pitch.
- He criticized the lack of remorse from pitchers today.
- Injuries from hit-by-pitches are on the rise.
- Merrifield believes the game has changed for the worse.
Whit Merrifield’s Outrage Over Modern Pitching Practices and Player Safety Concerns
Merrifield’s strong reaction came after he was struck by a 94.5 mph fastball during the Braves’ game against the Rockies. He expressed his frustration with the current state of pitching, stating that there seems to be no regard for player safety. This incident is part of a larger trend, as more players are getting hurt by pitches.
Increasing Incidents of Hit-By-Pitches in Major League Baseball
The number of hit-by-pitches (HBP) in MLB has surged dramatically. As of now, there have been 1,767 HBPs this season alone, surpassing the total from all of 2017. This trend raises serious concerns about player safety and the overall dynamics of the game.
Understanding the Impact of Hit-By-Pitches on Players
Hit-by-pitches can lead to serious injuries, affecting players’ careers and teams’ performances. Some key points include:
- Increased risk of concussions and fractures.
- Players like Austin Riley are sidelined due to injuries.
- More players are experiencing severe injuries from pitches.
- The trend shows no signs of slowing down.
In conclusion, Whit Merrifield’s criticism of modern pitching practices sheds light on a pressing issue in baseball. As injuries continue to rise, it is crucial for the league to address these safety concerns to protect its players.