Jun
“Perfect” Game
For the second time in a week, it looked like we would have another perfect game in baseball last night. Detroit’s Armando Gallaraga was perfect for the first 26 outs of the game. A tough play on the 27th batter made a close call at first base. First base umpire Jim Joyce ruled the runner safe, which broke up the perfect game. Unfortunately for Mr. Joyce he missed the call. He went on afterword to admit that he blew the call after seeing the replay. Also, he apologized to Gallaraga, understanding the impact his mistake had.
This brings up the perfect opportunity for baseball to discuss expanding instant replay. A couple years ago, several blown calls on homeruns led to Major League Baseball instituting replay on those specific calls. Since then, many folks have wanted to expand instant replay, similar to the NFL or other sports. I personally have been against it. Maybe it is because I was an umpire for 10+ years in Little League baseball (doing anything from 9 to 18-year olds).
However, last night’s events may have changed my mind. Maybe it is the right time to expand the use of replay. I do not think the umpire, Mr. Joyce, would object to it. His call would have been quickly reversed and nobody would have known his name. The talk would simply be about the amazing second perfect game in the last week.
I do not think the call can be reversed at this point. However, in the future with replay it certainly could be.
So, should baseball’s instant replay be expanded? How should we handle it? All replays from the booth or would each manager get a couple replays he could call for?
