Protective headgear for pitchers

[IdahoPilgrim]

http://ftw.usatoday.com/2013/12/mlb-pitchers-to-wear-protective-headgear-in-2014/

 

Looks like another step to reduce concussion issues and promote player health. The title of the linked article is somewhat misleading; it sounds like it will be optional and not mandatory, but it does say that MLB has verified at least one option would be ready for next year.

[B Richard]

Definitely something that will eventually become the norm, though it might take some time. Pitchers are creatures of habit and I could easily see some of them opting for the less protective option. This is a change for the better, IMO. Glad to see the discussion of pitcher safety becoming more prevalent.

[Mike Sixel]

I agree it will take time, heck, there were (are?) hockey players that did not want to wear helmets...

[Thrylos]

I like to have a look at those things first. If they are anything close to batting helmets, expect major issues with pitchers.

[IdahoPilgrim]

I agree it will take time, heck, there were (are?) hockey players that did not want to wear helmets...

 

Indeed. I remember Gump Worsley, playing goal without a mask. Hard core to the end.

[Riverbrian]

The pitchers are going to resist until mandatory.

 

I worry about it more at the college level because of the Metal Bats but someone will get killed on the mound someday. Not a question of IF but when.

 

They can't protect themselves. The ball is coming back at the pitcher too fast.

 

Head gear will save a life. Unfortunately... It won't become mandatory until someone dies.

 

Jeez... That was a bummer of a post from me.

[minn55441]

Best line from the article.

 

There’s really just no good reason not to protect pitchers’ heads if it doesn’t affect the game in any other way.

 

Batters used to wear caps and not helmets to bat. then they went to hard caps with no earflaps. I still remember Dave Winfield as one of the last players to bat with the old helmet with no earflaps. In time, it will look strange to see a pitcher on the mound without protective head gear.