Tigers' Miller disagrees with Merrifield, punishments for hitting batters

Detroit Tigers reliever Shelby Miller is sternly opposed to policing pitchers who pitch high and inside despite growing safety concerns.

"I don't think that would be fair," Miller said, according to Chris McCosky of The Detroit News. "I understand protecting hitters, but if somebody is trying to throw in, and they miss, and somebody unfortunately gets hit in the head, I don't think players should be fined for that or suspended - that, especially, would be silly."

Miller's comments are in response to Atlanta Braves infielder Whit Merrifield calling for changes after being hit in the head by a fastball during Tuesday's game against the Boston Red Sox.

The veteran infielder said pitchers "don't care where the ball goes" and that he would push for new rules as a member of MLB's rules committee.

"(A hit-by-pitch) happens, it's part of the game," Miller added. "I don't think any pitcher wants to hit somebody in the head. Mistakes happen. I totally respect why (Merrifield) is upset, but I don't think we should get a penalty for an accident."

Miller has only hit 27 batters in 12 MLB seasons.