With deference to "the Punch", the shot delivered by Los Angeles Lakers forward Kermit Washington to the face of Houston Rockets forward Rudy Tomjanovich during an NBA game on December 9, 1977, major league baseball had its own version of the punch during a game between the Toronto Blue Jays and Texas Rangers. Texas Ranger shortstop Rougned Odor delivered a straight right to the cheek of Toronto Blue Jay outfielder Jose Bautista after a hard slide by Bautista trying to take out Odor who was trying to turn the double play. Bautista was on first base because he had been hit by a 98 MPH fastball thrown by Rangers pitcher Matt Bush who was appearing in his second major league game. The subplots to this confrontation are fascinating.
First of all, not many punches land during baseball fights. Odor landed a punch that any professional boxer or MMA fighter would be proud of. I believe the adage "protect yourself at all times" applies here. Bautista left himself wide open for that shot and Odor took it. This baseball feud has carried over from last season because of Jose Bautista's "bat flip" after a homerun.
This was the last time the Blue Jays and Rangers were going to face each other this season (unless they meet in the playoffs) and it was more than likely Bautista's last at bat against the Rangers. A perfect time to send a message. 30 year old flamethrower, Rangers rookie and former overall number one draft pick Matt Bush, appearing in his second major league game. A perfect way to endear yourself to your major league teammates. He plunks Bautista in the ribs. A beaning that will stay with you for a few days.
Bautista seeks to meet out his own payback with a hard slide. A confrontation was inevitable. Accusations were thrown out by both teams. Suspensions will be handed out by major league baseball. Is "the feud" over? It is, at least for this season. Baseball players have long memories.
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