One-time Giants catcher Mike Matheny, whose own career ended due to concussions, has called out Marlins outfielder Scott Cousins for his hit on Giants catcher Buster Posey. Matheny didn't view the play as dirty, but did view it as an unnecessary hit. He felt Posey was defenseless and based on positioning had given Cousins an alternative to slide.
"You know what, it wasn't a dirty play, he didn't come high spikes, he didn't come high elbow. But it wasn't a necessary play. He was hunting. Buster gave him an option and he didn't take it."
What's interesting to note however is that Matheny does not think a rule change is in order. He said that instead, a catcher keeps that in the back of their mind for the next time the particular batter comes heading for home:
"I don't think you legislate," Matheny said. "I think you just put a mark in the column that that kid took a run at a catcher. To me as a catcher I know the next time I get the ball I'm going to stick it to him.
Since Posey went down with his injury there's been a lot of talk of changing the rules on home plate collisions. While I'm not entirely sure that's necessary, Matheny's comments would seem to lead to a game of retribution that would simply escalate matters. It's a tough call either way how best to handle the situation.