MLB players blast baseball’s ‘unwritten rules’ after Fernando Tatis Jr.’s 3-0 Grand Slam

In the Padres-Rangers game Monday night (box score), San Diego shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. hit a grand slam. In the eighth inning, Tatis came home to face Juan Nicasio with the bases loaded and took a 3-0 pitch off the right wall of the field at Globe Life Field. That put the Padres at 14-3.

At the 3-0 tally, Padres manager Jayce Tingler said he gave Tatis the sign to take the field and not swing. “It’s a learning opportunity … it will grow from it,” Tingler said after the game. Rangers manager Chris Woodward expressed contempt for Tatis’ home run and claimed he was “challenging the unwritten rules of today’s game”. Tingler worked under Woodward last year, so there’s an extra layer to their reactions.

Tatis’ grand slam and post-game comments from the two managers – unfortunately – reignited a futile debate about the “unwritten rules” of baseball. We have gathered feedback from current and former players on the matter for your reading pleasure.

Reds left-hander Amir Garrett didn’t hesitate to dismiss the idea of ​​unwritten rules in 2020.

Hall of Famer Johnny Bench thinks everyone should swing a 3-0 tally.

Dynamic White Sox superstar Tim Anderson asked why Tingler isn’t backing his player, adding that the game is not over yet.

Tatis’ grand slam was respected by pitchers like Red Sox left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez and Reds right-hander Trevor Bauer.

Right-hander Collin McHugh was pretty straightforward with his take.

Just the conversation about the “unwritten rules” in baseball left Twins right-hander Trevor May completely flabbergasted.

Retired MLB infielder Trevor Plouffe also defended Tatis and protested that the “unwritten rules” are “stupid” he says.

Former Mets utility player Ty Kelly reminded us that there are bigger priorities than debating swing on a 3-0 pitch.

Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson Mr. October himself expressed his support for Tatis and the energy he brings to the game.

Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo has proven that the 3-0 no-swing “rule” is a contradiction in itself.

Ahead of Tuesday’s game, Padres manager Jayce Tingler reflected on Monday’s events, including looking back on his “learning moment.” Tingler said he was referring to the concept of picking up signs, not unwritten rules.

Tingler also said this of his 3-0 grab sign:

Will Middlebrooks, a former MLB and CBS Sports head office third baseman, explained why he sided with Tatis.

Cardinals right-hander Jack Flaherty broke down Tatis’ staff in layman’s terms.

Pirates manager Derek Shelton has pleaded for baseball players to have fun, especially in this 2020 season without fans.

“It’s a fun game. I think we need to encourage the kids to have fun and enjoy the game,” Shelton said on MLB Network Radio Tuesday. “I think we have to let the kids play. The unwritten rules of the game are gone. There is respect … but when it comes to letting the guys play, I think you have to let them do that.”