Ex-Yankee spitballs idea of foreign substances invading MLB’s wet rag rule
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}It might be time for Gaylord Perry to begin plotting his comeback.
Following the introduction of MLB’s COVID-19-inspired rule, allowing pitchers to carry a wet rag — instead of licking their fingers to improve their grip — former Yankees reliever Jeff Nelson quickly guessed that countless players may attempt to throw spitballs this season, soaking the rag with a banned substance, rather than water.
“Love the wet rag rule for 2020. Pitchers are allowed to carry a wet rag in their back pocket instead of licking their fingers,” Nelson tweeted. “Good luck hitters, water won’t be the only thing on that rag.”
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}To help prevent pitchers from doctoring balls, umpires are permitted to check the rag for non-water substances at any point. Players and managers are encouraged to practice social distancing with umpires and will be subject to fines and/or suspensions if they come within six feet of an umpire in order to argue a play or call.