Most "rules" in MLB are the unwritten kind. Crisp was p.o.'d because the shortstop blocked the base with his knee and Crisp hurt his hand when he slid in. Most guys won't do what Barrett did on a stolen base attempt, but catchers will do it to prevent a runner from scoring. Catchers wear equipment for protection and infielders usually try to avoid contact so they don't get hurt. What Crisp did last night was kinda bush league. He knew he was going to get plunked and should've just taken his base. But, I'm not complaining because brawls are fun to watch.
It will be interesting to see if that lunkhead Gomes gets plunked next time they play. He was throwning punches at Crisp who had 2 other guys on top of him and his arms weren't free to defend himself. And Crawford admitted to pulling hair while he was in the pile. What a bunch of sissies. I'd like to see any of those guys take a shot at Nolan Ryan. Even at his age now, he'd beat any of those guys down.