Former MLB players think Odor tried to hit Bautista with his throw

A few former major leaguers have questioned whether or not Rangers 2B Rougned Odor intended to hit Blue Jays OF Jose Bautista with his throw before as an illegal slide, and a brawl, took place.

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While Rougned Odor’s fist connected with Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista's face on Sunday, some think he may have intended to hit him with a baseball moments prior.

A few former major leaguers have questioned whether or not the Rangers second baseman intended to hit Bautista with his throw before an illegal slide took place. The throw hit the ground between first and second base, and skipped into the outfield, coming nowhere close to first.

Former outfielder and current MLB Network analyst Eric Byrnes was adamant in his belief that Odor tried to “take off Jose Bautista’s head,” using slow-motion replay.

Later, on ESPN, Eduardo Perez also said that Odor was trying to “protect himself” by throwing the ball at Bautista—though he never cited any place in particular.

On Twitter, former Tiger Torii Hunter questioned whether or not Odor tried to hit Bautista in a conversation with former teammate Justin Verlander.

Odor also dropped his arm on that play to possible hit @JoeyBats19 in the face. 😱

— Torii Hunter (@toriihunter48) May 16, 2016

T... You know you're taught to throw low to prevent a guy from coming in high. https://t.co/LcjkRDZKZe

— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) May 16, 2016

that's true. I thought there was tension from both sides. It does make for a great conversation.

— Torii Hunter (@toriihunter48) May 16, 2016

The Blue Jays and Rangers will not meet again in the regular season.

– Kenny Ducey