Posting on other sites

Recent events have brought into sharp focus the issues involved with posting, as Arizona fans, at other sites in the SB Nation network. The new architecture here makes it easy to join other sites, and the common "look and feel" also gives the impression these are related sites. While true to an extent, this is not the case when it comes to community guidelines.

There, each site is different, and it is very easy for guests to forget that what may be harmless banter on one blog, is unacceptable on another. For example, political discussion is permitted on some sites, but not on others. Here are some tips to help maintain good relations: whether "official" or not, when you visit other SB Nation sites as an Arizona fan, you are effectively an ambassador for the Pit.

1. Lurk before you leap. Reading a site is essential before joining it, and there's little substitute as far as learning the guidelines. It'll give you a good idea of the tone, content and style. However, bear in mind that many sites will - understandably - give more latitude to regulars. Don't expect the same.
   
   
2. First impressions last. If you are going to post on another site, you might want to make your debut when we are not playing them. Indeed, have also not just finished playing them, and won't be playing them for a while, to reduce the chance of intentions being misunderstood. Find something nice to say about your hosts: admire a prospect, commend a recent performance. Or ask their opinion: how's former D-back X doing?
   
   
3. Avoid contentious topics. To quote Professor Higgins from My Fair Lady, "Keep to two subjects: the weather and everybody's health." Good advice. Even discussing the game can be problematic, especially as there is always a winner and a loser. It's very easy for winners to come across as smug or patronizing, even unintentionally.
   
   
4. Stay consistent. This may seem obvious, but if you do anything that could be construed as 'talking smack' about a site or team here, don't expect a warm welcome there. We read other sites; other sites read the Pit. Especially in the integrated system, it is very easy to see all the comments someone has made. No-one likes a hypocrite.
   
   
5. Be ready to back off. At the first sign of hostility, apologize - even if you don't feel it was your fault - and withdraw. No parting comments or last words, because they will almost certainly make the situation worse. Certainly, let us know here, so others can learn from your experience.
   

Personally, part of the joy of baseball, is the opportunity to talk to others who share that passion, regardless of what team they support. This common ground in a love of the sport unites us, and the above guidelines, combined with a genuine and general respect for others and their views, should help ensure a pleasant experience on both sides.