Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell talks MLB suspensions of Yasiel Puig and Chris Archer. Fletcher Page, fpage@enquirer..com
During Sunday’s game, Pittsburgh Pirates starter Chris Archer drew attention for a dark spot near his waistline. Fox Sports Ohio broadcaster Chris Welsh thought it was pine tar, which would be used to help his grip.
“Why would I put pine tar on my shirt?” Archer told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on Monday.
Using a foreign substance on the mound is illegal, but it’s rarely enforced. Pitchers will sometimes use pine tar, sunscreen and other things to help their grip.