The slide is several things, unnecessary, probably against the rules, and should be against the rules, but the contact itself wasn’t dangerous or malicious. The view from the 3rd base dugout can be misleading because Rizzo actually pulls his left leg back to avoid hitting Diaz high. Worst case scenario the collision of Rizzo’s legs to ground forced that motion which wasn’t hitting DIaz high and wasn’t dangerous. I concur with this take. I definitely think the slide was unnecessary, but he accomplished what he was trying to do -- break up the double-play -- without hurting the catcher. The slide was in no way dirty, and Rizzo is NOT a dirty player. I think Rizzo is well-regarded among his peers. I wish Rizzo just avoided him, but there is no reason to be upset with what he did. It wasn't a dirty play and I hope he doesn't get hit in retaliation. Another pic of the slide: This kind of slide should be against the rules though because a player with bad intentions could inflict real damage on the catcher.