Cubs' Johnson HBP intentional?

[durl]

Just saw Johnson get plunked in the back by Julio after Johnson robbed Fielder of a grand slam. My wife thought it might be accidental, but I sure thought it was intentional. Especially after the standing ovation the pitcher got for beaning a guy.

I can't recall the last time I saw an outfielder plunked for making a great play. Can anybody else remember something like that?

[remdog]

I don't ever remember seeing anyone drilled for a great defensive play.

I looked away just before that pitch so I can't say if it was intentional.

However, even Prince Fielder tiped his cap to Johnson so I don't think there was any malice intended.

Julio doesn't exactly have the best control. In fact, much as I tell an opponent when I drill them at the net in tennis, "with my control you know that if I was trying to hit you I would have missed". :lol:

Rem

[dougdirt]

I don't think the standing ovation should sway your thoughts on what happened. The fans think A and the players might be thinking B. I thought it was interesting that he got beaned after the 19th replay of the catch, but the players also weren't watching ESPN.

[Topcat]

Wasn't intentional plain and simple.

[HokieRed]

I thought it was definitely intentional. Middle of the back, first pitch, next time up for the guy who made the play. That number of "coincidences" points to the reasonable inference it was intentional--and incredibly bush.

[TOBTTReds]

I hope it wasn't, because even Prince soluted him by tipping his helmet before walking off the field.

[cincrazy]

I thought it was intentional too. I mean the pitch didn't barely hit him, it was right square in the back.

[BoydsOfSummer]

If Julio was trying to hit him it would have been a called strike.

[cincrazy]

If Julio was trying to hit him it would have been a called strike.

Fair point ;)