Uh-Oh: Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa Both Leave Twins Game After Outfield Collision

[Riverbrian]

20 hours ago, TFRazor said:

Which is why I said, "this is why we call for it kids." Doesn't matter the relative distances moved. If the outfielder can get to a ball and make a play, it's theirs. Correa should've also called for it as he should be aware that Buxton will be coming in hard tracking the ball, not looking to see if there's someone in his way. I'm certainly not assigning blame to one more than the other. They both messed up.

When we go back to what we were taught and what we teach as coaches.

The easy answer without nuance is: It's an easier catch for the outfielder coming in so it's the outfielders ball. The outfielder is supposed to take charge and call off the infielder. That's the golden rule that we all know and it is largely correct but not always.  

This play had some nuance to that rule that we try to make black and white. 

#1 - Common Sense is still required - The golden rule that we all know doesn't mean that the outfielder should run into the infield to catch the ball. Now Buxton didn't run into the infield but close enough. He was parked by the warning track. The ball had to be hit high in order for him cover that much ground and it was impressive how much ground he covered. However... common sense, experience should have told Buck that Correa would be camped under that thing. Correa is pretty good, Buxton had no reason to Kelly Leak that thing.  

#2 - Nobody should call for the ball unless they are sure that they are going to catch it. Buxton isn't going to be confident that he's got it until he covers the majority of the distance and it was a lot of distance. 

#3 - Regardless, I like the effort. I like that Buxton is pumped up with the winning streak enough to run 3 miles to make a play. I like that Buxton is excited to be playing baseball, when I by a ticket to the game, Buxton excited to play baseball is what I want to see. He made a tough catch and worked his ass off to make it. I wouldn't be scolding Buxton.  

#4 - Things happen. 

[LambchoP]

Crossed fingers that both guys won't miss too much time. We need them out there every day if we're going to keep winning, especially Buck with how he's been playing. If they can both avoid concussions I'd bet Buxton takes a day or two off, maybe DH's and then is back. Guessing Correa will take a minimum IL stint at the minimum, he seems to be willing to go on il more than Buck. Looking on the bright side, does this mean we'll finally see Mccusker get his chance?