MLB 2012 Thread

[jonumberone]

Originally Posted by kelmac07

I just don't understand the plunking for the sake of "welcome to the big leagues". I recall Hamels being a top prospect when he came up and also do not recall anyone hitting him. Granted, he is a pitcher...but nonetheless. I thought the whole "I meant to hit him" was complete bush league. Hamels should have kept his mouth shut and went about his business.

Every rook that hits the field isn't going to get plunked, nor should they.
The whole "welcome to the big leagues" isn't meant to be taken literally.
The message is "you're in the majors now, you're not as good as everyone told you you are", it's an ego check.
Why Harper?
I can't think of a rookie that has come up with as much hype and fanfare as Harper has.
Harper handled it well, he made Hamels pay, and embarrassed him when he stole home.

I agree Hamels should've kept his mouth shut, I just don't think everyone should be acting like they're shocked, because he said he did it.