Bumgarner's Strong Words About Scherzer And DH Rule
Madison Bumgarner had some choice words about Washington Nationals right-hander Max Scherzer and his views on putting a designated hitter across both leagues in the MLB.
"He knew the rules. Whatever much he signed for - what did he get, again? - he didn't have a problem signing his name," the reigning World Series MVP told the San Jose Mercury News.
The San Francisco Giants pitcher is referring to Scherzer's $210 million, 7-years contract with the Nationals. Scherzer perviously played for the Detroit Tigers. Who, like all American League teams, allows for a designated hitter. Recently, Scherzer sustained an injury to the thumb while batting. Something that would not have happened if the National League allowed a DH.
Scherzer told CBS Sports "If you look at it from the macro side, who'd people rather see hit -- Big Papi or me? Who would people rather see, a real hitter hitting home runs or a pitcher swinging a wet newspaper? Both leagues need to be on the same set of rules."
Mad Bum does not agree.
"He didn't have a problem with hitting then. I'm sure he had his pick of anywhere he wanted to go," Bumgarner referring to Scherzer signing with the Nationals.
"What if he got hurt pitching? Should we say we can't pitch anymore? I hate what happened to him. He works his butt off out there. But I don't think it was because he was hitting. What if he gets hurt getting out of his truck? You tell him not to drive anymore?
"That's the way the game has to be played. I appreciate both sides of the argument and I get it. But (ending pitcher plate appearances) isn't the way to go about (addressing) it."
What do you think? Should there be a DH in the National League?