Nick Franklin's batting helmet

The Game Room
1

I just watched this video clip of Mariners’ rookie infielder, Nick Franklin, hitting a 3-run HR:

http://wapc.mlb.com/play?content_id=28237167

What’s up with his batting helmet? I don’t think I’ve seen one like that before. At first I thought he was just wearing a minor-league-style helmet with the two ear guards, but when I got a closer look I realized it was different. Different enough that the announcers are commenting on it (comparing his look to the Great Gazoo from The Flintstones).

He is a switch-hitter, so I guess a helmet like that means he doesn’t need to keep two helmets handy, but I don’t think I’ve noticed other switch-hitters using special helmets.

2

In 2011 he suffered a concussion after being hit in the head with a bat during batting practice. I assume the over sized helmet is a result of that.

A few other players have used these over sized helmets after getting hit in the head with a pitch, most notably David Wright.

3

Thanks! I somehow hadn’t heard about that. I prefer to listen to the games on the radio rather than watch them on TV, which is why I hadn’t noticed his helmet until now, and if they mentioned his concussion on the radio, I missed it.

4

I really wish the announcers wouldn’t make fun of those helmets (and it’s always a Great Gazoo reference) - those provide a lot more protection against concussions, and there’s no reason for them to not be more popular, except vanity.