GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) – During his playing career, Mike Hargrove’s unique routine at the plate went something like this: step into the batter’s box, adjust gloves, brush lip, tap cleats with bat to remove dirt, check helmet, tug at jersey sleeve, hitch up pants, check right thumb protector. Repeat.
Every pitch.
It earned him a classic nickname, “The Human Rain Delay.”
These days, Hargrove’s ritual – he claims it only lasted 19 seconds – would not only be frowned upon, but possibly get him fined under Major League Baseball’s new pace of play initiatives designed to speed up a game many purists believe doesn’t need more tinkering.
“Grover would be playing for free,” joked Indians skipper Terry Francona.