It seems even Major League Baseball has gotten involved to some degree in regards to anti-bullying.
In a recent article published by Deadspin, MLB and its players union are set to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement that “includes a section banning hazing.” Apparently, this will not be contested by the Major League Baseball Players Association.
Of course, hazing rookies has long been a part of baseball, and from the looks of it (with the exception of a small few who have voiced displeasure over the years), the players seem to take it in stride and realize it’s part of the game.
However, the policy also touches upon more serious subject matter.
According to Deadspin, it not only bans players dressing up like women or celebrities, but it also ” includes language that bans forcing rookies to drink alcohol or take drugs, encouraging taunting or excessive exercise, and coercing rookies to do things that are illegal or dangerous. The proposal also includes an anti-bullying clause that states: “Players may not engage in a pattern of verbal or physical conduct that is designed to demean, disgrace or cause mental or physical harm to a member of his club.”
As discussed in Rainbow Rabbit’s Anti-Bullying Educational Program, there’s a fine line between teasing and bullying, and it’s good to see that baseball will keep some of their longtime, harmless traditions, while factoring just cause into some situations that are not for the betterment of their athletes.
What are your thoughts on this topic?
You can read the Deadspin article here.