Fasolamatt has done more work on RandBall lately than we have. He has another Great Debate topic right about now. Matt?

Jonah Keri of ESPN’s largely forgettable Page 2 tells a good story here about Rick Reuschel and Larry Bowa:

“Bowa, Reuschel’s teammate on the ‘84 Cubs and opponent for many years beforehand, tells a great story about the big righty. Playing for the Phillies one series in the late ’70s, Bowa’s team got smoked by the Expos in Montreal. Bowa told Montreal reporters he didn’t mind, because the Phillies would be traveling to Chicago, where they’d beat up on a lousy Cubs team — and by extension, Reuschel. The first time Bowa stepped to the plate, Reuschel drilled him in the ribs. Bowa swore at Reuschel as he hobbled down to first, while Reuschel stayed silent. Leading off first base, Bowa shouted to Reuschel that he was going to steal second. Reuschel quickly picked him off. Later in the game, Reuschel singled with one out. Bowa told his double play partner Dave Cash that if a grounder comes his way, send him a good toss and he’ll bean Reuschel in the forehead on the throw to first. Sure enough, the next batter hit a perfect double play grounder to Cash. But the Phillies’ second baseman juggled the ball before flipping it to Bowa. The bobble gave Reuschel extra time, which he used to slide high into second, spiking Bowa (Reuschel outweighed him by 80 pounds), unleashing a pool of blood and forcing Bowa to leave the game. Back in the dugout, Bowa waved a white towel of surrender in Reuschel’s direction. Reuschel quietly tipped his cap, thanking Bowa for the tribute.”

Have you ever waved the white flag in tribute? Have you ever tipped your cap in response? Do tell.

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