Crawford disagrees with outlawing the “neighborhood play”
Giants shortstop says he doesn’t think new rule helps protect infielders
SAN FRANCISCO -- Brandon Crawford and Joe Panik have lockers next to each other in the Giants’ clubhouse, so while Panik was busy answering questions after Thursday’s game about losing a double play to changes in the "neighborhood rule," Crawford was elsewhere, out of the way.
Friday afternoon, though, the Giants’ shortstop weighed in on MLB’s new rules this season governing double plays at second base.
"Not the biggest fan of them," Crawford said.
In particular, Crawford said he objects to outlawing the "neighborhood play," which previously gave infielders leeway around the bag to avoid an incoming runner.