MLB Ejection 140: Jerry Meals (2; Bryce Harper)

HP Umpire Jerry Meals ejected Nationals RF Bryce Harper for arguing a strike three call in the top of the 11th inning of the Nationals-Mets game. With one out and none on, Harper took a 2-2 fastball from Mets pitcher Hansel Robles for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and thigh high (px -1.151, pz 2.523), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 1-1. The Mets ultimately won the contest, 2-1, in 12 innings.

This is Jerry Meals (41)'s second ejection of 2015.
Jerry Meals now has 2 point in the UEFL Standings (4 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = 2).
Crew Chief Jerry Meals now has 13 points in Crew Division (13 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 13).

This is the 140th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 66th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Harper was 0-5 (SO) in the contest.
This is the Nationals' 6th ejection of 2015, 1st in the NL East (WAS 6; NYM 4; ATL, PHI 3; MIA 1).
This is Bryce Harper's 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since May 20 (Marin Hudson; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Jerry Meals' first ejection since July 12, 2015 (Jose Bautista; QOC = Y [Balk]).

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets, 7/31/15
Video: Harper objects to an extra-inning strikeout by barking at Meals for a quick heave-ho (WAS)

MLB Ejection 139: Tom Woodring (1; Terry Francona)

HP Umpire Tom Woodring ejected Indians Manager Terry Francona for arguing an ejection no-call (Unsportsmanlike-NEC) in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Royals-Indians game. With one out and none on, Indians batter Michael Brantley took a 0-1 fastball from Royals pitcher Jeremy Guthrie for a hit-by-pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located inside and hit Brantley's calf; warnings had previously been issued after two previous hit batsmen, the call was irrecusable. At the time of the ejection, the Indians were leading, 2-0. The Indians ultimately won the contest, 12-1.

This is Tom Woodring (75)'s first ejection of 2015.
Tom Woodring now has 1 point in the UEFL Standings (-2 Previous + 3 AAA + 0 Irrecusable = 1).
Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom now has 7 points in Crew Division (6 Previous + 1 Irrecusable Call = 7).

This is the 139 ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 63rd Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Indians' 5th ejection of 2015, T-3rd in the AL Central (KC 10; CLE, CWS, DET 5; MIN 3).
This is Terry Francona's 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 28 (Ron Kulpa; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Tom Woodring's first ejection since March 23, 2015 (Glenn Sherlock; QOC = U [Throwing At]).

Wrap: Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Indians, 7/29/15
Video: Francona wants Guthrie removed on HBP after warnings, but Woodring rules it unintentional (CLE)

To Establish a Catch, Voluntary Release is Mandatory

With two dropped fly balls ruled "no catch" via replay review on Tuesday night, now might be a good time to review the criteria of the air putout more commonly known as a catch. A catch is addressed in two different 'official' documents: The Official Baseball Rules and the Major League Baseball Umpire Manual (MLBUM).

F8 Mookie Betts goes over the short wall.

Rule 2.00 [Catch] (2015 OBR Appendix Definition of the term, 'Catch') defines a catch as: "The act of a fielder in getting secure possession in his hand or glove of a ball in flight and firmly holding it...In establishing the validity of the catch, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough to prove that he has complete control of the ball and that his release of the ball is voluntary and intentional. If the fielder has made the catch and drops the ball while in the act of making a throw following the catch, the ball shall be adjudged to have been caught."

In other words, as the MLBUM interprets it, "A ball will be ruled caught when the momentum of the catch is completed and the player voluntarily releases the ball."

The first such play Tuesday evening occurred in Cleveland, when Royals batter Lorenzo Cain hit a fly ball to deep right field. As Indians RF Brandon Moss attempted to corral Cain's fly, he ran into the outfield wall and, in doing so, dropped the baseball. Replays indicate that F9 Moss indeed gained possession of the baseball in his glove, but failed to satisfy the requirement that his release must be voluntary and intentional.
Video: Cain is awarded third base on umpire Eric Cooper's safe call confirmed via replay review (KC)

The more complex of the two plays occurred in Boston on White Sox batter Jose Abreu's long fly ball to right-center field, where Red Sox CF Mookie Betts attempted to catch the sinking fly. Replays indicate that after capturing the ball in his glove, Betts' momentum took him up over the wall and into the Fenway Park bullpen, whereupon the ball popped out of his glove. In addition to an involuntary release, Betts' effort was not ruled a catch by the New York Replay Official because, pursuant to the MLBUM interpretation, his momentum was not completed with the ball still in his control. As Rule 6.09 (OBR 2015 Rule 5.05(a)(9)) states, a four-base award (home run) shall be granted if "any fair fly ball is deflected by the fielder into the stands [in fair territory]." If deflected into foul territory, the award is second base. Had there been less than two outs on this play and Betts was ruled to have legally caught the ball before carrying it out of play, any existing runners would be awarded one base (and B1 would be declared out).
Video: Abreu hits a home run when Betts accidentally juggles his deep drive out of the park (CWS)
Easter Egg: Watch Bullpen Cop, Boston Police Officer Steve Horgan, do his thing at 3:48.

As for the more intricate and complex issue of a ball dropped on the transfer after having been legally caught vs. a ball bobbled and never caught, refer to MLB's May 2014 interpretation of the Catch/Transfer rules.

MLB Ejections 137-138: Davis (3-4; Gomez, Counsell)

3B Umpire Gerry Davis ejected Brewers CF Carlos Gomez and Manager Craig Counsell for arguing a Replay Review decision that overturned 2B Umpire Phil Cuzzi's safe call in the top of the 9th inning of the Brewers-Giants game. With none out and one on, Brewers baserunner Gomez attempted to steal second base off Giants catcher Buster Posey, who threw to second baseman Joe Panik as Gomez slid into second base, ruled safe by 2B Umpire Cuzzi. Upon Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Giants Manager Bruce Bochy, Cuzzi's call was reversed to an out, the call was irrecusable. At the time of the ejections, the Giants were leading, 4-2. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

These are Gerry Davis (12)'s third and fourth ejections of 2015.
Gerry Davis now has 11 points in the UEFL Standings (7 Previous + 2*[2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable] = 11).
Crew Chief Gerry Davis now has 4 points in Crew Division (2 Previous + 2 Irrecusable Call = 4).

These are the 137th and 138th ejections of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 65th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Gomez was 0-4 in the contest.
This is the 62nd Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Brewers' 4/5th ejection of 2015, T-1st in the NL Central (CHC, CIN, MIL, STL 5; PIT 4).
This is Carlos Gomez's first ejection since April 20, 2014 (Fieldin Culbreth; QOC = U [Fighting]).
This is Craig Counsell's first career MLB ejection.
This is Gerry Davis' first ejection since July 2, 2015 (John Gibbons; QOC = U [Replay Review]).

Wrap: Milwaukee Brewers vs. San Francisco Giants, 7/27/15
Video: Bochy files a successful Manager's Challenge, bringing the Giants an out closer to victory (SF)
Video: After reversal, Gomez' repeat helmet toss, Counsell's argument prompt ejections in the 9th (MIL)

MLB Ejection 136: Toby Basner (2; Mike Napoli)

HP Umpire Toby Basner ejected Red Sox 1B Mike Napoli for arguing a strike three call in the bottom of the 1st inning of the White Sox-Red Sox game. With two out and none on, Napoli took a 0-2 fastball from White Sox pitcher John Danks for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the inner half of home plate and thigh high (px -.338, pz 1.992 [sz_bot 1.460]), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the White Sox were leading, 4-2. The White Sox ultimately won the contest, 10-8.

This is Toby Basner (99)'s second ejection of 2015.
Toby Basner now has 8 points in the UEFL Standings (3 Previous + 3 AAA + 2 Correct Call = 8).
Crew Chief Bill Miller now has 4 points in Crew Division (3 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 4).

This is the 136th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 64th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Napoli was 0-1 (SO) in the contest.
This is the Red Sox's 8th ejection of 2015, 1st in the AL East (BOS 8; TOR 6; BAL, NYY 4; TB 3).
This is Mike Napoli's 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 28 (Tripp Gibson; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Toby Basner's first ejection since May 28, 2015 (Manny Machado; QOC = Y [Check Swing]).

Wrap: Chicago White Sox vs. Boston Red Sox, 7/27/15
Video: After striking out to end the 1st, Napoli tosses his helmet, which rebounds and hits Basner (BOS)

Real 'Fake Umps' Return on Sunday Night Baseball, Aug 2

The original "Fake Umpires" are returning to Sunday Night Baseball at Citi Field for a one-evening engagement on August 2, benefitting UMPS CARE Charities, the non-profit established by MLB Umpires (click here for the Real Fake Umpires campaign). These real fake umps appeared in the seats behind Major League home plates throughout the United States and Canada from the 2008 through 2010 seasons before retiring to the "normal" spectating duties of attending games in street attire. Prior to their 2010 retirement, the real fake umpires forged an association with UMPS CARE Charities, raising approximately $8,875 during their then-last hurrah in June 2010 and over $10,000 during their original run.

Real Fake Umpires Tim Williams (L) and Joe Farrell.

Who are they? Real Fake Umpires Tim Williams (Blue Sleeve #78, Black #42) and Joe Farrell (Blue #53, Black #71) work for an institutional stock brokerage firm in Toronto and are season ticket holders for the Toronto Blue Jays. From the broadcast camera looking in from center field, Williams can be identified by the black mask with throat guard; Farrell wears Wilson's doe skin mask. [Related Video: Fake Ump Farrell, Left; Williams, Center; Real Ump Bucknor, Right, call the June 20, 2010 Giants-Jays game (Father's Day) in Toronto.]

How do they get on TV? Perhaps a similar answer to why they retired: "Fake umpiring is no easy task. A lot of preparation has to go into every performance and it's extremely costly with travel, tickets, and stadium prices on food and beer. One also needs to be an expert in stadium schematics and typically only 6-8 seats in the front row in the TV shot work out of the 48,000 or so stadium seats. This act just doesn't fly 30 rows up down the left field line." As was the case during their trips from 2008-2010, the real fake umpires will be paying for the Citi Field finale trip entirely out of their own pockets. Expensive? Maybe not as much as Fenway Park in 2009, when Boston was regularly sold out!

Why use the phrase "Real 'Fake Umpires'"? Williams explains best: "Joe and I were disgusted as were a few of the umpires working the game in San Francisco that day [July 8] that two guys stole the act we invented in 2008 and put on a Double A act at a Major League Stadium [Related Video: A pair of umpires call game from stands]. We couldn't let our legacy end like this and thus decided to come out of retirement one last time to reclaim our rightful identities and restore honour back to the craft known as Fake Umpiring." [Related: Cubs' broadcast deems the real fake umpires' practice, "Fantasy Umpiring" / ESPN E:60 Profile "Fake Umps"]

After all, how else are international fake umpires supposed to learn?

Notable: Williams and Farrell officiated the June 20, 2009 Presidents' Race in Washington, DC, whereupon the umpires ejected George Washington, who drew a one-game suspension for the misconduct [Video: George Gets Tossed]. They also taught Blue Jays mascot Ace how to call a strikeout.

When and Where: You can catch the real Fake Umpires Tim Williams and Joe Farrell in their farewell game at Citi Field in New York on Sunday, August 2 during ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball, first pitch is scheduled to begin shortly after 8:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 PDT). They will be joined by the real real umpires' crew led by chief Jerry Meals, whose listed crew features Paul Emmel, Andy Fletcher, and Jordan Baker. Fletcher was the plate umpire for the July 8 game in San Francisco while 'Turtle' was UMPS CARE President Gary Darling's number two (backup crew chief) before being promoted to the full-time supervisory position. Emmel also was part of the Darling-Meals crew in 2013.

Their performance will benefit UMPS CARE Charities (FB/@UmpsCare), the 501(c)(3) non-profit established by Major League Baseball umpires to provide financial, in-kind and emotional support for America’s youth and families in need. To contribute your fully tax deductible donation to the Real Fake Umpires campaign benefitting UMPS CARE Charities, visit http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/tim-williams-4/the-real-fake-umpires.

Just Back from DL, Jim Joyce Leaves Game with Leg Injury

Having just returned from injury, umpire Jim Joyce left Sunday's game in Seattle following a foul ball to the leg in the bottom of the 10th inning of the Blue Jays-Mariners contest. Joyce previously tore his calf muscle during a game on June 24, 2015 and, after finishing that contest, was placed on the umpires' Disabled List, with a prognosis for return of 3-4 weeks.

Joyce returned to game duty with his crew of Greg Gibson (who served as acting crew chief), Sam Holbrook, and Chad Fairchild on Friday, July 24 and worked home plate on Saturday. Sunday's injury to Joyce's right leg occurred during his third game back in service. Replays indicate the ball bounded to the left (foul) side of third base before striking Joyce on the right calf.

Footage of the Sunday TOR-SEA game indicated a limp prior to Joyce's removal from the game. During Saturday's contest, Joyce appeared to have also been attempting to stretch or exercise his leg.

Video: An already-ailing Jim Joyce is nailed in the right calf on Sunday, prompting him to leave the game

MLB Replay Reviews, Week 16 (July 20 - July 26, 2015)

MLB umpires experienced 61 instant replay reviews during the week of July 20 - July 26, 2015 (+39 over prior week). Games played during this period featured the following MLB Replay Review decisions:
New York MLBAM Replay Official Crew Chiefs: 38 Gary Cederstrom and 26 Bill Miller.

MLB Ejection 135: Jeff Nelson (1; Paul Molitor)

HP Umpire Jeff Nelson ejected Twins Manager Paul Molitor for arguing a strike three (check swing) call in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Yankees-Twins game. With two out and three on, Twins batter Aaron Hicks attempted to check his swing on a 3-2 slider from Yankees pitcher Adam Warren for a swinging third strike. Play was reviewed and adjudicated by the UEFL Appeals Board (8-0-0), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Twins were leading, 5-1. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 8-5.

This is Jeff Nelson (45)'s first ejection of 2015.
Jeff Nelson now has ? points in the UEFL Standings (3 Previous + 2 MLB + ? Call = ?).
Crew Chief Jeff Nelson now has ? points in Crew Division (5 Previous + ? Call = ?).

This is the 135th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 61st Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Twins' 3rd ejection of 2015, 5th in the AL Central (KC 10; CWS, DET 5; CLE 4; MIN 3).
This is Paul Molitor's 2nd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 10 (Mark Ripperger; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Jeff Nelson's first ejection since March 29, 2015 (Terry Pendleton; QOC = U [Balk]).

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Minnesota Twins, 7/25/15
Video: Molitor doesn't like a bases-loaded strike three call to end the inning, is tossed (MIN)

2015 No-Hitter 3: Phil Cuzzi (2; Cole Hamels)

HP Umpire Phil Cuzzi called Phillies P Cole Hamels' no-hitter, the third of 2015. Cuzzi was joined for Saturday's Phillies-Cubs game by crew chief Gerry Davis (1B), Will Little (2B), and Tony Randazzo (3B). This is Cuzzi's second career no-hitter (Bud Smith; September 3, 2001).

Saturday's is the first MLB no-hitter since June 20, 2015 (Mike Muchlinski; Max Scherzer).

Cuzzi received 68 callable pitches from Hamels, a total of 44 balls and 24 called strikes. The look:

Balls: 42 called balls outside of strike zone / 2 called balls within strike zone = 42/44 = 95.5% Accuracy.
Strikes: 20 called strikes inside strike zone / 4 called strikes outside strike zone = 20/24 = <90.0% Accuracy.
Total Raw Accuracy Score = 63/68 = 92.6% Accuracy (+2 for Hamels).

Pitch f/x plot courtesy Brooks Baseball. Note: This plot is a graphical approximation of the strike zone and is
not the basis for analysis.

MLB Ejection 134: Hunter Wendelstedt (2; Bob Melvin)

HP Umpire Hunter Wendelstedt ejected Athletics Manager Bob Melvin for arguing a strike one call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Blue Jays-Athletics game. With one out and one on, A's batter Stephen Vogt took a first-pitch fastball from Blue Jays pitcher for a called first strike as A's baserunner Billy Burns attempted to steal second base off Blue Jays catcher Russell Martin. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the inner half of home plate and thigh high (px .277, pz 2.608), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 1-1. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Hunter Wendesltedt (21)'s second ejection of 2015.
Hunter Wendelstedt now has 10 points in the UEFL Standings (6 Previous + 2 MLB + 2 Correct = 10).
Crew Chief Hunter Wendelstedt now has 7 points in Crew Division (6 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 7).

This is the 134th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 60th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the A's' 3rd ejection of 2015, 3rd in the AL West (HOU, SEA 4; OAK 3; LAA, TEX 2).
This is Bob Melvin's 2nd ejection of 2015, 1st since April 26 (Quinn Wolcott; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Hunter Wendelstedt's first ejection since May 18, 2015 (Nick Hundley; QOC = Y [Check Swing]).

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Oakland Athletics, 7/22/15
Video: Melvin questions the possibility of a pitchout called a strike and is tossed from the dugout (OAK)

MLB Ejections 132-133: Carapazza (3-4; Ward, Leone)

HP Umpire Vic Carapazza ejected Diamondbacks Hitting Coach Turner Ward for arguing a warnings/ejection non-call in the bottom of the 6th and Diamondbacks P Dominic Leone for throwing at Marlins batter Christian Yelich in the top of the 7th inning of the Marlins-Diamondbacks game. In the 6th, with two out and none on, Diamondbacks batter David Peralta took a 0-2 fastball from Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez for a hit by pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located inside and hit Peralta on the helmet, the call was irrecusable (No batters had been hit by pitches in the game prior to Peralta). In the 7th, with two out and none on, Marlins batter Yelich took a 2-0 fastball from Diamondbacks pitcher Leone for a hit by pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located inside and hit Yelich on the backside, the call was irrecusable. At the time of both ejections, the Marlins were leading, 5-2. The Marlins ultimately won the contest, 5-3.

These are Vic Carapazza (19)'s third and fourth ejections of 2015.
Vic Carapazza now has 0 points in the UEFL Standings (-4 Previous + 2*[2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable] = 0).
Crew Chief Larry Vanover now has 4 points in Crew Division (2 Previous + 2 Irrecusable Call = 4).

These are the 132nd and 133rd ejections of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 63rd player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Leone's line was 1.2 IP, 0 ER, SO.
This is the D-Backs' 2/3rd ejection of 2015, 5th in the NL West (SD 12; LAD 7; SF 5; COL 4; ARI 3).
This is Turner Ward's first ejection since June 12, 2013 (Clint Fagan; QOC = U [Fighting]).
This is Dominic Leone's first career MLB ejection.
This is Vic Carapazza's first ejection since July 11, 2015 (Clint Hurdle; QOC = N [Foul/HBP]).

Wrap: Miami Marlins vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 7/22/15
Video: Ward yells at Carapazza and is kicked out, all while Peralta lies injured at the plate (ARI)
Video: Leone retaliates for the earlier HBP and is immediately expelled for the intentional beanball ()

MLB Ejection 131: Adam Hamari (2; Joe Maddon)

1B Umpire Adam Hamari ejected Cubs Manager Joe Maddon for arguing a balk call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Cubs-Reds game. With one out and one on, Cubs pitcher Kyle Kendricks attempted to pick off Reds baserunner R1 Tucker Barnhart. Replays indicate Kendricks threw from the rubber to directly to first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who was positioned several steps in front of first base and did not appear to attempt to retire Barnhart, the call was correct.* At the time of the ejection, the Reds were leading, 4-1. The Reds ultimately won the contest, 9-1.

This is Adam Hamari (78)'s second ejection of 2015.
Adam Hamari now has 10 points in the UEFL Standings (5 Previous + 3 AAA + 2 Correct = 10).
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth now has 8 points in Crew Division (7 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 8).
*The official interpretation reads: "The pitcher shall be charged with a balk if, while in contact with the rubber, he throws to the first baseman who is either in front of or behind first base and obviously not making an attempt at retiring the runner at first base. However, there is no violation if the pitcher throws the ball directly to first base in this situation. Also note that there is no violation if the pitcher attempts a pickoff at second and throws to an infielder who is in front of or behind that base (i.e., this violation is only in reference to pick-offs at first [and third] base)."

This is the 131st ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 59th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Cubs' 5th ejection of 2015, T-1st in the NL Central (CHC, CIN, STL 5; PIT 4; MIL 3).
This is Joe Maddon's 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since May 6 (DJ Reyburn; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Adam Hamari's first ejection since June 9, 2015 (Jay Bruce; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds (Doubleheader Game 1), 7/22/15
Video: Balk for failure to throw to active fielder or directly to the base prompts Maddon's early exit (CHC)

2B Bounding Ball Over Ground Rules-Less Kauffman

A Pirates' fly ball bouncing off and over the outfield wall in Kansas City produced a rule-book double upon a Crew Chief review, effectively overturning the umpires' original on-field ruling of a home run. With replays clearly showing Starling Marte's drive hitting high off the fence in left field before kicking in the air and landing beyond the wall, all while in fair territory, Pittsburgh Manager Clint Hurdle was left wondering how such a high-flying hit could be declared anything but a homer, especially after ruled a home run on the field by 3B Umpire Phil Cuzzi and crew chief Gerry Davis.

Here's how.

Official Baseball Rule 6.09 (2015 OBR 5.05(a)(5)) states that a batter shall have hit a home run and be entitled to touch all four bases when, "A fair ball passes over a fence or into the stands at a distance from home base of 250 feet or more." Oddly enough, the rule governing a fair ball passing over the fence at this distance greater than 250' fails to include the term "fly ball," but the phrase makes an appearance just one sentence later, in regards to the no-longer existing short dimension: "A fair fly ball that passes out of the playing field at a point less than 250 feet from home base shall entitle the batter to advance to second base only."

Regardless, the rule regarding a home run pertains specifically to a "fair fly ball," and moreso we're looking for a fair fly ball that passes over top of the wall. Replays clearly indicate the ball hit the wall several feet below its top (since, at Kauffman Stadium, the railing/chain-link portion in front of fans is considered part of the outfield wall [we thought MLB might want to shift Kauffman away from the Universal Ground Rules following that particular 2011 play, but...they didn't]), meaning that we essentially have a ball hitting mid-wall, and caroming off that at a height that enabled it to bounce out of the playing field.

Remember this photo? KC's lack of Stadium-specific
ground rules has once again caused confusion.

Subsequent provision (8) governs, "Any bounding fair ball is deflected by the fielder into the stands, or over or under a fence on fair or foul territory, in which case the batter and all runners shall be entitled to advance two bases." Yet we also know, pursuant to provision (9), that "Any fair fly ball is deflected by the fielder into the stands, or over the fence into foul territory, in which case the batter shall be entitled to advance to second base; but if deflected into the stands or over the fence in fair territory, the batter shall be entitled to a home run."

So at this point, our key distinction is "bounding fair ball" versus "fair fly ball," or simply "bounding" vs "fly."

Bounding: A bounding ball is one that has bounced (and specifically bounced off of the ground, wall, or any other object which is not a defensive player); we see the term "bounded" in two places within the rules: Regarding fair/foul status on a batted ball passing first or third base, and regarding a fair ball entering the stands. A ball is said to be "bounding to the outfield" if it has been batted, and more practically, if it has touched the ground prior to the front edge of first/third base. A ball is bounding over the wall, similarly, if it has touched the playing field in some way prior to leaving it.

Fly: A ball is on the fly as long as it has not been touched (e.g., catching a ball "on the fly" for an air out). In the case of passing first/third base for determining fair/foul, in stark contrast to a bounding ball, a fly ball is not adjudged to be fair/foul until it is no longer a fly - until it has touched something, or more overtly, has changed direction from its natural descent. Usage: Sacrifice fly, infield fly, etc.

Deflected: To cover all of our bases, a deflected ball is one whose trajectory has changed by virtue of a player touching the ball - whether after being a bounding ball or a fly ball. Usage: As in (9), a defensive player deflecting a fly ball over the fence in fair territory results in a home run.

As you can see, bounding and fly are mutually exclusive and, generally speaking, a fly ball could precede a bounding ball on the same play, but a bounding ball will not precede a fly ball.

Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City has long held no unique ground rules (which itself has caused major problems in the past, even with replay review in existence), meaning that the actual OBR set of rules referenced above were the only regulations governing this play. (So this is effectively our second campaign to get Kauffman its own set of ground rules since we've now seen two HR/Not HR calls ruled incorrectly on the field on balls first striking below the full height/railing of the wall, since the Universal Ground Rules predates Kauffman's addition of the spectator-friendly railing extension. Other facilities, such as Pittsburgh, have ground rules specifically addressing height disparities amongst its outfield walls [at PNC Park, a similar play pursuant to ground rule would likely be a home run; absent ground rule, it would be a two-base award similar to the present play in KC].)

Replays of the Pirates non-HR indicate the fair fly ball struck the outfield wall in left field, at which point the fly ball became a bounding ball. The now-bounding ball caromed high in the air before falling on the out-of-play side of the fence in left (also in fair territory). Because a bounding ball exited the playing field, as opposed to a fly ball in flight, Rule 6.09 (2015 OBR 5.05(a)(8)) took effect (as opposed to, say 5.05(a)(5)), meaning the batter was awarded two bases for the bounding ball exiting the playing field.

Video: Starling is sent to second on fly ball ruling which is reversed to the status of "bounding" (PIT)

Ejectionless Bench-Clearer in Giants v Padres Tilt

The benches cleared during the Giants-Padres game at Petco Park Tuesday night, leaving no ejections but plenty of hurt feelings in San Francisco's 9-0 blowout victory. Broadcasters at the time speculated a beanball might be brewing as retaliation for an earlier hit-by-pitch.

Gibson instructs Kelley to knock off the nonsense.

After Giants batter Hector Sanchez grounded out to lead off the top of the 9th inning, San Diego reliever Shawn Kelley and Sanchez exchanged words, resulting in a drawn out argument and intervention from all four umpires as crew chief Greg Gibson ordered the Giants to remain on their side of the third base foul line and the Padres not to advance any further.

Unfortunately for Gibson, a surprise surge by both bullpens from the rear in center field allowed several Giants to position themselves offsides before the crew of HP Umpire Chad Fairchild, 1B Umpire Sam Holbrook, 2B Umpire Gibson and 3B Umpire Clint Fagan restored order so that the Giants could finally put the Padres out of their misery, but not before scoring three runs to make the game somewhat respectable.

Video: Giants and Padres do the bench-clearing dance during a laugher at Petco (SD)

MLB Ejection 130: James Hoye (3; Don Mattingly)

HP Umpire James Hoye ejected Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly for arguing a strike one call in the top of the 8th inning of the Dodgers-Braves game. With none out and none on, Dodgers batter Justin Turner took a 3-0 fastball from Braves pitcher Luis Avilan for a called first strike before flying out on an ensuing pitch. Replays indicate the 3-0 pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and thigh high (px .996, pz 2.464), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Braves were leading, 4-3. The Braves ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is James Hoye (92)'s third ejection of 2015.
James Hoye now has 5 points in the UEFL Standings (7 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = 5).
Crew Chief John Hirschbeck now has 11 points in Crew Division (11 Previous + 0 Incorrect = 11).

This is the 130th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 58th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Dodgers' 7th ejection of 2015, 2nd in the NL West (SD 12; LAD 7; SF 5; COL 4; ARI 1).
This is Don Mattingly's 4th ejection of 2015, 1st since May 29 (Mike Winters; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is James Hoye's first ejection since June 3, 2015 (Dan Jennings; QOC = N-C [Check Swing]).

Wrap: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Atlanta Braves, 7/21/15
Video: As Turner jaws at Hoye after making out, Mattingly intercedes and gets himself tossed (ATL)

MLB Ejection 129: Paul Schrieber (1; David Ross)

HP Umpire Paul Schrieber ejected Cubs C David Ross for arguing a strike one (check swing) call in the top of the 7th inning of the Cubs-Reds game. With none out and none on, Cubs batter Dexter Fowler attempted to check his swing on a 1-0 splitter from Reds pitcher Burke Badenhop. Play was reviewed and adjudicated by the UEFL Appeals Board (1-7-0), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Reds were leading, 5-4. The Reds ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is Paul Schrieber (43)'s first ejection of 2015.
Paul Schrieber now has ? points in the UEFL Standings (2 Previous + 2 MLB + ? Call = ?).
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth now has ? points in Crew Division (7 Previous + ? Call = ?).

This is the 129th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 62nd player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Ross had not participated in the contest.
This is the Cubs' 4th ejection of 2015, T-3rd in the NL Central (CIN, STL 5; CHC, PIT 4; MIL 3).
This is David Ross' first ejection since August 23, 2014 (Vic Carapazza; QOC = Y [Check Swing]).
This is Paul Schrieber's first ejection since July 9, 2014 (Don Mattingly; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds, 7/20/15
Video: Ross' and skipper Joe Maddon's objection to a swing call results in the bench player's ejection (CHC)

MLB Replay Reviews, Week 15 (July 17 - July 19, 2015)

MLB umpires experienced 22 instant replay reviews during the week of July 17 - July 19, 2015 (-35 over prior week). Games played during this period featured the following MLB Replay Review decisions:
New York MLBAM Replay Official Crew Chiefs: 33 Mike Winters and 65 Ted Barrett.

MLB Ejection 128: Manny Gonzalez (2; Ian Kinsler)

HP Umpire Manny Gonzalez ejected Tigers 2B Ian Kinsler for arguing a strike one call in the bottom of the 3rd inning of the Orioles-Tigers game. With one out and two on, Kinsler took a 2-0 fastball from Orioles pitcher Miguel Gonzalez for a called first strike before flying out on the subsequent 2-1 pitch. Replays indicate the 2-0 pitch was located over the inner edge of home plate and below the hollow of the knee (px -.776, pz 1.349 [sz_bot 1.460 / MOE 1.377]), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Orioles were leading, 1-0. The Orioles ultimately won the contest, 9-3.

This is Manny Gonzalez (79)'s second ejection of 2015.
Manny Gonzalez now has -4 points in the UEFL Standings (5 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect = 3).
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth now has 5 points in Crew Division (5 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 5).

This is the 128th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 61st player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Kinsler was 0-2 in the contest.
This is the Tigers' 5th ejection of 2015, T-2nd in the AL Central (KC 10; CWS, DET 5; CLE 4; MIN 2).
This is Ian Kinsler's first ejection since July 24, 2012 (Tim Tschida; QOC = Y [Safe/Out]).
This is Manny Gonzalez's first ejection since April 26, 2015 (Jeff Banister; QOC = U [Replay Review]).

Wrap: Baltimore Orioles vs. Detroit Tigers, 7/19/15
Video: After hitting a pop fly, Kinsler slams his bat towards home and is tossed for the demonstration (DET)

Rangers-Astros Bench-Clearing Produces No Ejections

Houston, Texas: A bench-clearing shoving match between the Rangers and Astros during the 9th inning of Saturday's Rangers victory proved much ado about nothing as the 50-person argument at home plate dissipated without disciplinary action from Chief Gerry Davis' umpiring crew.

A delay dispute cleared the seats.

The dispute began when Rangers batter Rougned Odor failed to timely enter the left-handed batter's box, drawing protest from Astros catcher Hank Conger and HP Umpire Tony Randazzo, the former standing up to confront Odor as Randazzo stepped in between the duo and Rangers on-deck batter Prince Fielder ran in to pull Conger away before pushing Odor out of the fray.

Replays indicate that at one point, Rangers Manager Jeff Banister and Astros skipper AJ Hinch appeared to grab eachother's jerseys and yell as 2B Umpire Phil Cuzzi attempted to break up the argument, before being joined by Randazzo and 1B Umpire Will Little.

Odor was not charged an automatic strike for failing to timely occupy the batter's box, pursuant to a pre-season directive stating players may be warned by the league or fined $500 for delaying the game in such a fashion. Less than a month after the season began, however, MLB and the player's association agreed to reset the warning and fine penalties with each new series, effectively meaning Odor (and all MLB players) started anew after the All-Star Break.

Time of Odor's delay into the batter's box before Conger stepped up to confront him: About seven seconds.
Total delay caused by both benches clearing after Conger stood up: About two minutes, 56 seconds.
Video: Conger and Odor have a disagreement at home plate, resulting in a 9th-inning bench clearer (HOU)

MLB Ejection 127: Chad Fairchild (1; Terry Collins)

HP Umpire Chad Fairchild ejected Mets Manager Terry Collins for arguing a strike one call in the top of the 7th inning of the Mets-Cardinals game. With none out and none on, Mets batter Lucas Duda took a 3-0 fastball from Cardinals pitcher Lance Lynn for a called first strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the heart of home plate and below the hollow of the knee (px .002, pz 1.509 [sz_bot 1.760]), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Cardinals were leading, 2-1. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Chad Fairchild (4)'s first ejection of 2015.
Chad Fairchild now has -4 points in the UEFL Standings (-2 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect = -4).
Crew Chief Greg Gibson now has 9 points in Crew Division (9 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 9).

This is the 127th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 57th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Mets' 4th ejection of 2015, 2nd in the NL East (WAS 5; NYM 4; ATL, PHI 3; MIA 1).
This is Terry Collins' 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 25 (Larry Vanover; QOC = N [Safe/Out]).
This is Chad Fairchild's first ejection since March 30, 2015 (Clint Hurdle; QOC = U [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: New York Mets vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 7/17/15
Video: Down by a run, Collins protests a non-walk from the dugout and is ejected from the game (NYM)

Major League Debut of Umpire Carlos Torres (37)

Umpire Carlos Torres made his MLB debut during the Indians-Reds game on July 17 in Cincinnati. Torres joined chief Jeff Kellogg's crew, serving as the second base umpire alongside Brian O'Nora and Cory Blaser.

Torres is on the International League roster for the 2015 season, which is his third season in the IL and in Triple-A (2013-15 IL). He has also worked the Gulf Coast, New York-Penn, South Atlantic, Carolina, Southern and Arizona Fall Leagues, in addition to MLB Spring Training in March 2015.

Torres wears the uniform number 37 at the Major League level, which was last worn by Gary Darling, and makes his MLB debut at the age of 36. Torres presently resides in Acarigua, Venezuela and becomes the second Venezuelan umpire to officiate an MLB game (Manny Gonzalez, who also worked the IL).

Discussion of the 2015 MLB All-Star Game

Crew Chief Tim Welke leads the All-Star Game umpires as the Mid-Summer Classic's home plate umpire. He is joined in Cincinnati by 1B Umpire Jerry Meals, 2B Umpire Paul Schrieber, 3B Umpire Ron Kulpa, LF Umpire James Hoye, and RF Umpire Alan Porter with Replay Official Brian Gorman stationed at MLBAM headquarters in New York. The UEFL opens the floor for 2015 All-Star Game discussion. Notes include home plate umpire performance according to pitch f/x and UEFL Rules 6-2-b-a (horizontal bound, "Kulpa Rule") and 6-2-b-b (vertical strike zone, "Miller Rule"). Plays include significant plays, if such plays occur.

- 7/14/15, AL@NL: HP Umpire Tim Welke: pfx. (101/103 Balls, 36/48 Strikes = /151 = 90.7%). +2 NL.

Close or Notable Plays (Green = QOC Correct / Red = QOC Incorrect / Yellow = QOC Irrecusable).
- 1st: 1B Umpire Jerry Meals rules Bryce Harper out on bang-bang play to end the opening frame
- 5th: 1B Umpire Meals calls AL All-Star MVP Mike Trout safe at first on a fielder's choice
- 9th: 1B Umpire Meals calls Braun's triple a fair ball, mirrored by RF Umpire Alan Porter

Replay Review Records (2015 Season, Opening Day through All-Star Break) - RAP
PU Tim Welke: .400 RAP (4 Affirmed / 10 Total).
U1 Jerry Meals: .400 (4/10).
U2 Paul Schrieber: .333 (2/6).
U3 Ron Kulpa: .545 (6/11).
U4 James Hoye: .600 (6/10).
U5 Alan Porter: 1.000 (2/2).

Overall Team Review (TSP) and Managers' Challenge (CSP) Success Percentages:
AL Manager Ned Yost: TSP = . 500 (7/14) - T-10th. CSP = .538 (7/13) - T-11th.
NL Manager Bruce Bochy: TSP = .478 (11/23) - T-17th. CSP = .526 (10/19) - 13th.

2015 Season Second Half Prop Bets

UEFL Prop Bets for the 2015 season's second half are now available. Pursuant to UEFL Rule 4-6, "Prop predictions are forecasts of what might occur during an upcoming season, series or game. They may be numerical (e.g., "On what date will the first ejection of the MLB season occur?") or objective (e.g., "What umpire will finish the season with exactly 10 ejections?")." As has been past practice, you are free to wait before submitting your predictions, but be advised that if a particular bet is fulfilled before, and up to an hour after, you submit your form (e.g., Tim Welke doles out his ejection before or up to an hour after you have submitted your form), you will be ineligible to participate and receive points for that particular prop bet. The hour-after period is to account for developments occurring within ballgames that might influence prop betting and only applies to single-event props. At the latest, the form itself is due July 31, 2015.

Click here to access the 2015 Second Half Prop Board and to submit your wagers.

All prop prediction, case play, and bonus points from the season's first half have been added to the standings.

MLB Ejections, Replay Stats at the 2015 All-Star Break

MLB Ejection & Instant Replay Review Statistics and Umpire Sabermetrics through All-Star Break 2015 are now available. Visit 2014's Instant Replay Review Statistics 101: Week 1 Sabermetrics for an introduction to Ejection & Replay Review definitions and terms, including Review Affirmation Percentage (RAP), also known as QOC (Quality of Correctness), Replay Percentage of Success (RPS), alternatively, 1.000 - RAP = RPS, and Manager's Challenge Success Percentage (CSP). Also included is Team Success Percentage (TSP), which includes all Replay Reviews; both Manager's Challenges and Crew Chief Reviews.

The following presentation includes summaries and detailed analysis for ejections and replay data gathered during baseball season's ceremonial first half.

Summary, Ejections.
>> 126 Total Regular Season Ejections through July 12, 2015 ("Ceremonial First Half").
>> Umpires were 67.0% accurate on calls associated with ejection.
>> The Padres were ejected more often than any other team; the NL West led all MLB divisions.
>> The D-Backs & Marlins were ejected least often; the AL West trailed all MLB divisions.
>> Ex-Manager Bud Black formerly of the Padres led all managers in ejections.
>> Player Matt Kemp of the San Diego Padres led all players in ejections.
>> Umpire Holbrook led all umpires; Tripp Gibson was the most accurate ejector (highest E-QOC).
>> Tim Welke & John Hirschbeck's crews tied to lead all of baseball in ejection activity.
>> Most ejections occurred in the 7th inning; Ejections from 7th and on comprised 50% of all tosses.
>> Most ejections occurred on Sundays. Weekend series (Fri-Sun) featured 48% of all heave-ho's.
>> The most common reason for ejection was Balls/Strikes, followed by arguing a Check Swing.

Summary, Replay Reviews.
>> 687 Total Replay Reviews, of which calls were affirmed 53% of the time (47% overturned).
>> The Tampa Bay Rays used replay more than any other team, but were the 2nd least accurate (LA).
>> Manager Kevin Cash (TB) led all managers in filing challenges, but was fairly inaccurate.
>> Don Mattingly (LAD) and Cash (TB) were the league's worst challenging managers (lowest CSP).
>> Chip Hale (ARI) led the league in accuracy.
>> The league average manager was successful in challenging a play 49% of the time.
>> Umpires Baker and Bucknor saw at least 15 of their calls reviewed, each, more than any other umpire.
>> John Hirschbeck's crew led all of baseball in replay activity by a significant margin.
>> Umpire Alfonso Marquez led the league in accuracy with all of his calls affirmed by replay.
>> Umpire Paul Nauert experienced the highest rate of his calls being overturned by replay.
>> Most reviews occurred in the 8th inning. Reviews from 7th and on comprised 41% of all reviews.
>> Most reviews occurred on Sundays; Calls were most often overturned in daytime conditions.
>> The most common reason for review was Safe/Out, followed by HR/Not HR and HBP/Foul.

For detailed sabermetric analysis of MLB umpire ejections and instant replay review outcomes, follow the "read more" link below. The advanced data below includes team and individual (by manager/player/umpire) ejection and replay review leaders and statistics, including manager's challenges and crew chief reviews. Complete listed ranking of least and most successful managers in challenging, most successful teams (manager's challenges + crew chief reviews) and review percentages by umpire are included.

MLB Replay Reviews, Week 14 (July 6 - July 12, 2015)

MLB umpires experienced 57 instant replay reviews during the week of July - July 12, 2015 (+6 over prior week). Games played during this period featured the following MLB Replay Review decisions:

MLB Ejection 126: Jerry Meals (1; Jose Bautista)

HP Umpire Jerry Meals ejected Blue Jays DH Jose Bautista for arguing a balk no-call in the top of the 8th inning of the Blue Jays-Royals game. With two out and one on, Bautista took a 1-1 cutter from Royals pitcher Wade Davis for a called second strike before fouling the subsequent pitch delivered from Set Position. Replays indicate the 1-1 pitch was located over the inner edge of home plate and belt high (px -.934, pz 3.139) while Davis appropriately came to a stop after the stretch before delivery of the 1-2 pitch, the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 10-10. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 11-10.

This is Jerry Meals (41)'s first ejection of 2015.
Jerry Meals now has 2 points in the UEFL Standings (-2 Previous + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 2).
Crew Chief Jerry Meals now has 9 points in Crew Division (8 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 9).

This is the 126th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 60th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Bautista was 1-4 in the contest.
This is the Blue Jays' 6th ejection of 2015, 2nd in the AL East (BOS 7; TOR 6; BAL, NYY 4; TB 3).
This is Jose Bautista's first ejection since August 24, 2014 (Bill Welke; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Jerry Meals' first ejection since June 1, 2014 (Anthony Rizzo; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Kansas City Royals, 7/12/15
Video: Upset about the 1-2 hole, Joey Bats continues chirping about balls and strikes, is tossed (TOR)

MLB Ejections 124-125: Carapazza (1-2; Cervelli, Hurdle)

HP Umpire Vic Carapazza ejected Pirates C Francisco Cervelli and Manager Clint Hurdle for arguing a foul ball call in the top of the 2nd inning of the Cardinals-Pirates game. With two out and none on, Cardinals batter Mark Reynolds attempted to strike a 1-2 knuckle curve from Pirates pitcher A.J. Burnett for a called foul ball, prior to hitting a home run on the succeeding pitch. Replays indicate that Reynolds' bat did not appear to contact the baseball during his swing, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Cardinals were leading, 1-0. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 6-5, in 14 innings.

These are Vic Carapazza (19)'s first and second ejections of 2015.
Vic Carapazza now has -4 points in the UEFL Standings (0 Previous + 2*[2 MLB - 4 Incorrect] = -4).
Crew Chief Larry Vanover now has 2 points in Crew Division (2 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 2).

These are the 124th and 125th ejections of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 59th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Cervelli was 0-0 in the contest.
This is the 56th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Pirates' 3/4th ejection of 2015, 3rd in the NL Central (CIN, STL 5; PIT 4; CHC, MIL 3).
This is Francisco Cervelli's first career MLB ejection.
This is Clint Hurdle's 3rd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 14 (Cory Blaser; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Vic Carapazza's first ejections since October 4, 2014 (Matt Williams; QOC = Y [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: St. Louis Cardinals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 7/11/15
Video: Given second life, Reynolds clubs a solo homer, leading to sour grapes and two Pirate ejections (FOX)

MLB Ejection 123: Greg Gibson (5; Brent Strom)

HP Umpire Greg Gibson ejected Astros Pitching Coach Brent Strom for arguing balls and strikes in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Astros-Rays game. With two out and one on, Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel walked Rays batter Brandon Guyer, prompting a mound visit from Strom, who was subsequently ejected during this visit. Replays indicate Gibson experienced six callable pitches ruled "ball" prior to Strom's ejection in the bottom of the 7th inning and that all pitches were properly officiated (100% Accuracy), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Rays were leading, 3-0. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 3-0.

This is Greg Gibson (53)'s fifth ejection of 2015.
Greg Gibson now has 13 points in the UEFL Standings (9 Previous + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 13).
Crew Chief Greg Gibson now has 11 points in Crew Division (10 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 11).

This is the 123rd ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the Astros' 4th ejection of 2015, T-1st in the AL West (HOU, SEA 4; LAA, OAK, TEX 2).
This is Brent Strom's first career MLB ejection.
This is Greg Gibson's first ejection since April 19, 2015 (Kelvin Herrera; QOC = U [Throwing At]).

Wrap: Houston Astros vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 7/11/15
Video: Strom lingers at the mound and immediately earns his ejection when Gibson breaks the meeting (HOU)

MLB Ejection 122: Marty Foster (4; Victor Martinez)

HP Umpire Marty Foster ejected Tigers DH Victor Martinez for arguing a strike three call in the top of the 5th inning of the Tigers-Twins game. With one out and one on, Martinez took a 2-2 knuckle curve from Twins pitcher Phil Hughes for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and midpoint high (px -.961, pz 3.049 [sz_top 3.360]), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Twins were leading, 7-4. The Twins ultimately won the contest, 9-5.

This is Marty Foster (60)'s fourth ejection of 2015.
Marty Foster now has 4 points in the UEFL Standings (6 Previous + 2 MLB - 4 Incorrect Call = 4).
Crew Chief Mike Winters now has 10 points in Crew Division (10 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 10).

This is the 122nd ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 58th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Martinez was 0-2 (SO) in the contest.
This is the Tigers' 4th ejection of 2015, T-3rd in the AL Central (KC 10; CWS 5; CLE, DET 4; MIN 2).
This is Victor Martinez's first ejection since September 19, 2008 (Jerry Layne; QOC = U [Fighting]).
This is Marty Foster's first ejection since May 31, 2015 (Justin Turner; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: Detroit Tigers vs. Minnesota Twins, 7/11/15
Video: V-Mart argues the outside breaking ball after striking out and is summarily dismissed (DET)

MLB Ejection 121: Chris Segal (1; Lorenzo Cain)

HP Umpire Chris Segal ejected Royals CF Lorenzo Cain for arguing a strike two call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Rays-Royals game. With one out and none on, Cain took a 2-1 splitter from Rays pitcher Steve Geltz for a called second strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the inner edge home plate and thigh high (px -.745, pz 2.437), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Royals were leading, 7-3. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 8-3.

This is Chris Segal (96)'s first ejection of 2015.
Chris Segal now has 6 points in the UEFL Standings (1 Previous + 3 AAA + 2 Correct = 6).
Crew Chief Tim Welke now has 7 points in Crew Division (6 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 7).

This is the 121st ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 57th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Cain was 1-3 in the contest (SO).
This is the Royals' 10th ejection of 2015, 1st in the AL Central (KC 10; CWS 5; CLE 4; DET 3; MIN 2).
This is Lorenzo Cain's 2nd ejection of 2015, 1st since April 23 (Sam Holbrook; QOC = U [Fighting]).
This is Chris Segal's first ejection since August 18, 2014 (Ron Gardenhire; QOC = N [HBP/Foul]).

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Kansas City Royals, 7/9/15
Video: After flying out in the 7th, Cain is ejected between innings arguing the earlier strike call (KC)

MLB Ejections 119-120: Pat Hoberg (2-3; Molina, Matheny)

HP Umpire Pat Hoberg ejected Cardinals C Yadier Molina and Manager Mike Matheny in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Cardinals-Cubs game. With two out and three on, Cubs batter Miguel Montero took a 2-2 fastball from Cardinals pitcher Michael Wacha for a called third ball before hitting an ensuing pitch for a three-RBI double. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the outer edge of home plate and knee high (px -.855, pz 1.700), the call was correct. At the time of the ejections, the Cubs were leading, 5-4. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 6-5.

These are Pat Hoberg (31)'s second and third ejections of 2015.
Pat Hoberg now has 17 points in the UEFL Standings (7 Previous + 2*[3 AAA + 2 Correct] = 17).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has -2 points in Crew Division (-4 Previous + 2 Correct Call = -2).

These are the 119th and 120th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 56th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Molina was 1-3 in the contest.
This is the 55th Manager ejection of 2015.
This is the Cardinals' 4/5th ejection of 2015, T-1st in the NL Central (CIN, STL 5; CHC, MIL 3; PIT 2).
This is Yadier Molina's first ejection since June 2, 2013 (Clint Fagan; QOC = Y [Safe/Out]).
This is Mike Matheny's 2nd ejection of 2015, 1st since June 2 (Joe West; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).
This is Pat Hoberg's first ejection since yesterday, June 7, 2015 (Seth Maness; QOC = Y [Fair/Foul]).

Wrap: St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs, 7/8/15
Video: Molina immediately confronts Hoberg as Montero hits a double, resulting in a double-toss (STL)

2015 MLB All-Star Game Umpires Led by Chief Tim Welke

MLB announced umpires for the 2015 All-Star Game on July 14 at Cincinnati's Great American Ball Park, selecting a younger umpiring crew to join the young stadium for its inaugural Mid-Summer Classic. The umpires are:

HP Umpire Tim Welke (crew chief): This is Tim Welke's third career All-Star Game and first behind home plate as a crew chief (1990, RF; 2005, 1B). 2015 Ejections: 0. 2015 Replays: 4 Affirmed / 10 Total = .400 RAP.
2014 UEFL Award: Worst Umpire of Year.

1B Umpire Jerry Meals: This is Jerry Meals' second career All-Star Game, first as a regular season crew chief (2002, 3B). 2015 Ejections: 0. 2015 Replays: 4/10 = .400 RAP.

2B Umpire Paul Schrieber: Second career All-Star Game (2000, 3B). 2015 Ejections: 0. 2015 Replays: 2/6 = .333 RAP.

3B Umpire Ron Kulpa: Second career All-Star Game (2001, LF). 2015 Ejections: 1 (E-111, 6/28). 2015 Replays: 6/11 = .545 RAP.

LF Umpire James Hoye: First All-Star Game. 2015 Ejections: 2 (E-018, 4/19; E-073, 6/3). 2015 Replays: 6/10 = .600 RAP.

RF Umpire Alan Porter: First All-Star Game. 2015 Ejections 1 (E-107, 6/24; S-12, 3/31). 2015 Replays: 2/2 = 1.000 RAP.

Replay Official Brian Gorman: His first All-Star Replay assignment. 2015 Ejections: 1 (E-074, 6/4). 2015 Replays: 4/5 = .800 RAP.

League Ranks for Replay Review (of 87 total umpires), Review Affirmation Percentage (RAP):
Tim Welke = T-65th
Jerry Meals = T-65th
Paul Schrieber = T-70th
Ron Kulpa = T-37th
James Hoye = T-29th
Alan Porter = T-1st (technically T-3rd due to tiebreaker of number of replays experienced).

ASG Crew, Assigned Solely Based on RAP Standings:
HP: Brian Gorman -cc (9th - must be an active regular season crew chief)
1B: Sam Holbrook (1st, 6/6)
2B: Alfonso Marquez (T-1st [2nd], 3/3)
3B: Alan Porter (T-1st [T-3rd], 2/2)
LF: Quinn Wolcott (T-1st [5th], 1/1)
RF: Mark Carlson (6th, 11/12 [.917])

Reserves: Kerwin Danley (6/7), Paul Emmel (4/5), David Rackley (4/5), Marvin Hudson (3/4), Mark Ripperger (3/4), Fieldin Culbreth (5/7), Mark Wegner (5/7), Joe West (5/7).
*Pat Hoberg (T-1st [3rd], 2/2) and Adam Hamari (8th, 9/11) not eligible due to AAA status.

Pursuant to UEFL Rule 2-2-a, all All-Star Game umpires will receive one League point for appearing in the contest while Welke will receive two points for his role as crew chief. No points are awarded to the Replay Official (must "appear[] in that game").

MiLB All-Star Futures Game Umpires:
HP Umpire Ron Teague (AAA, PCL [Freshly Promoted from AA-Texas League]), 1B Umpire Dan Merzel (AA, Eastern League), 2B Umpire Javerro January (AA, Southern League), 3B Umpire Junior Valentine (AA, Eastern League). All will work the Home Run Derby while January and Valentine will officiate Sunday's Legends and Celebrity Softball Game.

MLB Ejection 118: Pat Hoberg (1; Seth Maness)

1B Umpire Pat Hoberg ejected Cardinals P Seth Maness for arguing a fair ball call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Cardinals-Cubs game. With one out and two on, Cubs batter Addison Russell hit a 1-2 fastball from Cardinals pitcher Maness on the ground down the first base line, ruled a fair ball by Hoberg. Replays indicate the ball first contacted the ground near home plate in foul territory, but landed on the foul line at approximately the 80-foot-mark and appeared to bounce over the front edge of first base in fair territory before again bouncing foul in the outfield grass, the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the game was tied, 2-2. The Cubs ultimately won the contest, 5-3.

This is Pat Hoberg (31)'s first ejection of 2015.
Pat Hoberg now has 7 points in the UEFL Standings (2 Previous + 3 AAA + 2 Correct Call = 7).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has -4 points in Crew Division (-5 Previous + 1 Correct Call = -4).

This is the 118th ejection of the 2015 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 55th player ejection of 2015. Prior to ejection, Maness' line was 1.0 IP, 3 R, BS, L.
This is the Cardinals' 3rd ejection of 2015, T-2nd in the NL Central (CIN 5; CHC, MIL, STL 3; PIT 2).
This is Seth Maness' first career MLB ejection.
This is Pat Hoberg's first ejection since May 28, 2014 (Elvis Andrus; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes]).

Wrap: St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs (Doubleheader Game 2), 7/7/15
Video: Russell's game-tying single provokes controversy with St. Louis, thanks to odd caroms (CHC)
Video: Maness gets ejected as Tim McCarver changes his initial opinion: "that's a fair ball" (STL)

Are Umps Playing Through Pain for MLB-Wilson's Sake?

Is MLB and Wilson's sponsorship deal hurting umpires or is the association a positive presence for umpire safety? Concussions and other umpire injuries have apparently "skyrocketed" in recent years, according to a topic of debate presented at the 2014 National Sports Law Negotiation Competition (Behind the Mask). The pointed accusations argued at the annual moot contest included declining steel quality, MLB-Wilson's exclusivity contract and a reference to the umpiring community's thus-far lone litigator, Ed Hickox.

The Behind the Mask round of debate presented by NSLNC host Thomas Jefferson School of Law's Center for Sports Law & Policy pitted teams from law schools around the country in arguing the MLB-Wilson equipment situation on behalf of both key stakeholders—the World Umpires Union (sic, "World Umpires Association," herein WUA, is the correct title) and Wilson Equipment (Amer Sports Corporation's Wilson Sporting Goods Company).

Accordingly, the following article is presented in the National Sports Law Negotiation Competition spirit with a focus "on current issues in sports each year and facilitates students, coaches, and judges to negotiate and make decisions on these sports topics in an academic setting." The NSLNC's mission is "to provide the sports profession with a body of able and ready legal minds, through the negotiation and training of law students with the use of real-life issues affecting athletes, sports franchises, teams, businesses, and entities." Presented as an objective analysis and overview of the issue, the UEFL does not draft nor endorse any opinion for or against any stance in the NSLNC WUA v Wilson debate.

According to its website, the NSLNC boasts former Minor League Baseball umpire Brandon Leopoldus (2000-2004, serving as California League All-Star Game Crew Chief in 2004 having worked the 2003 Cal League Championship Series) as a Board member. Leopoldus has previously written for Referee Magazine as a legal consultant regarding liability, camps, and taxes/FEINs.

Here are the key facts presented in the NSLNC document, according to the CSLP posting:
≫ 1996: Wilson debuts its single bar lightweight steel umpire mask, which soon becomes known as industry best.
≫ 2002: Wilson changes its steel supplier for mask bars due to the declining US steel industry. The new supplier effectively provides "much cheaper steel," accordingly of a "far lower quality."
≫ 2009: Wilson and MLB sign a contract stating that Wilson shall be the exclusive protective equipment supplier to umpires working MLB games. Wilson's is the only logo that umpires may display on their protective equipment (N/A to shoes).
≫ Fall 2013: Wilson again changes its steel supplier, further diminishing steel quality. Wilson develops a new titanium frame, but the NSLNC doc notes this "has only seen an even greater uptick in concussions."

The NSLNC noted that of the time of the 2009 sponsorship deal, more than 90% of all professional umpires wore at least one Wilson product (e.g., the licensed West Vest). In 2012, an Umpire-Empire post indicated that 50 big league umpires (of 85) wore a Wilson model while 55 wore a Wilson chest protector, such as the West Vest (including 55 West Vests [5 Original Douglas models included in the tally]).

NSLNC also wrote that Wilson's internal testing records showed several concussions associated with the company's facemask products, a finding that purportedly was leaked to the media and to the WUA.

The findings indicate that since then, MLB has allotted WUA some lee-way in negotiating their own new mask deal, including an opt-out clause in the MLB-WUA CBA related protective equipment that may be invoked when umpires are injured during MLB games while using official equipment.

According to NSLNC, over 20 WUA members have suffered diagnosed concussions while wearing the newest Wilson masks, which had turned the WUA sour on MLB's exclusive relationship with Wilson. Per NSLNC: "It is in Wilson’s best interest to keep umpires safe, and it is in the WUA’s interest in ensuring that its members are receiving access to the best possible equipment available, regardless of who makes it. The WUA is also interested in obtaining fair compensation for its members for, in effect, endorsing Wilson products."

This might place some stakeholders, such as umpire Joe West, in a unique position. West's MLB Umpire Profile states that he designed "all of Wilson Sporting Goods' 'high-end' umpire equipment," and West indeed designed and patented the popular West Vest chest protector, subsequently founding a company called West Vest, LLC. West additionally serves as President of the World Umpires Association.

In December 2014, contract negotiations between MLB and WUA stalled, and although umpire lockout remained a possibility, the umpires and baseball reached agreement on a five-year contract about 10 days later.

A since-removed online video promoting his flagship product famously showed West taking a fastball directly to the West Vest chest protector and appearing not to be bothered by its impact whatsoever. Yet the crux of the umpire safety issue these days is the mask, not the chest protector, which makes or breaks the issue of head trauma in a way a chest protector does not.

MLB Umpire Ed Hickox

A quick review of the most recent 2015 season umpire facial, neck, and head injuries show some umpires removed from gameplay under concussion protocol or head injury concerns have worn certain Wilson masks (such as Tom Hallion on 7/1/15 or Marty Foster on 6/16/15, etc.) while others such as Greg Gibson, for instance, who took a direct shot to the face and remained in the game and series, wore non-Wilson products: Gibon's HSM resembles an All-Star System 7 helmet and is completely devoid of any manufacturer's logo (remember, if it's not a Wilson, its logo cannot be displayed pursuant to the terms of MLB's exclusivity relationship with Wilson). But remember sampling bias as a majority of MLB umpires do wear Wilson products (which are, of course, visible thanks to the trademark "W") and non-Wilson headwear umpires have also experienced game-ending cranial injury (CB Bucknor, 7/13/13, though he remained in a 2012 game after a deflection to the face). In a similar vein, Wilson-wearer Clint Fagan stayed in his game after taking a deflection to the face. All else equal (assuming all masks are of the same quality, safety, etc.), a majority of concussions would be expected to occur in the Wilson-wearing population.

Ed Hickox has long been the high profile umpire and WUA member to have gone after Wilson in court (in two separate cases; the first concerning a 2005 injury and the latter a 2009 injury, both while wearing Wilson products behind the plate).

For instance, one expert witness during Hickox's first trial, Dr. Igor Paul, stated that the mask design contributed to Hickox's severe jaw injury:

Dr. Paul did not merely assert that the angle of the throat guard was a defect that caused Mr. Hickox's injuries; rather, Dr. Paul explained his reasoning, step by step. Using freeze frames of the video of the incident, Dr. Paul stated his opinion that the angle of the throat guard caused the mask to trap the ball before deflecting it, concentrating the energy of the ball at the point of impact. Dr. Paul further explained how the impact of the ball hitting the throat guard created a wedging action that pushed the wire portion of the mask against Mr. Hickox's jaw bone, causing injury.

The throat guard allegedly was angled forward instead of extending straight down and lacked a center wire that could have deflected the ball instead of temporarily trapping it.

That specific trial, which was argued in front of a jury, ended in award to the Hickoxes: The jury rendered verdict for the plaintiffs on each of their claims, which included strict liability for a defective product, design defect, negligent design, design defect due to failure to warn, and breach of implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. Ed was awarded $750,000 and wife Lisa was awarded $25,000 in damages (he originally sought $2 million, and Lisa sought $200,000).

Think Manny Gonzalez's own game-ending foul ball to the throat under a Wilson mask in New York brought back some painful memories?

Wilson had tried to argue Paul's testimony was faulty and lacked scientific foundation, that the jury should have been instructed on an assumption-of-risk defense, and insufficient evidence to support judgment against it on product-liability claims. At the end of it all, however, a DC appeals court affirmed the trial court (and jury)'s decision resulting in a $775k award to the plaintiffs. Hickox himself is no stranger to the law, serving as a Daytona Beach Shores Police Department detective during the MLB offseason.

Attorney Patrick Regan noted, "They were using the umpires and catchers as human guinea pigs" in response to Wilson's presentation of their practice of "field testing," wherein Wilson observed how the mask held up while being worn by umpires and catchers during live ball action.

In 2012—while waiting for Wilson's appeal of the 2005 injury case to be heard—Hickox filed in New York State Supreme Court over a 2009 injury sustained while wearing the A5590 Titanium Shock FX Helmet—that's a 2005 injury due to a defective traditional-style facemask (throat guard angle) that cost Wilson $775,000 and a 2009 lawsuit against Wilson that now alleged the company was extremely negligent by showing a "willful and wanton disregard" if not outright malice or a complete disregard for umpire safety with a titanium hockey-style mask. The 2009 foul ball injury purportedly resulted from the A5590 mask fracturing into several pieces, while Hickox suffered a concussion, injuries to his left year, as well as a closed head injury, including "permanent injuries as a result of the incident in question without any contributory fault of his own." Lisa Hickox additionally claimed loss of society, companionship and consortium.

The NSLNC report states that this second lawsuit was adjudicated and that "settlements were sealed by order of the court."

So is MLB's association with Wilson hurting or helping umpires? Hickox proved—in multiple courts of law—that in two specific cases of injury, Wilson was liable and negligent in part over a faulty mask design and, in the DC case, responsible for offering Hickox a mask that hadn't been adequately tested and, in Reagan's language, using him during field testing as a "human guinea pig," but this sample size is, of course, extremely small, statistically unreliable, and refers to incidents taking place a decade (and six years) ago. The NSLNC paper presented several facts that could be used by competition teams to make the argument that Wilson exclusivity may in some cases endanger umpire safety, while leaving the door open for rebuttal in favor of keeping Wilson in the loop—and clearly invested with umpires—through its association with equipment developers and patent-holders, such as Joe West of the West Vest. As relates to masks, West designed several masks for Wilson, noting that (according to his website), "the masks that were designed for Wilson by Joe West evolved into two single (as opposed to hinged) cross bars." Notably, the West Vest umpire masks featured on Umpirejoewest.com appear to feature throat frames which extend at a close to vertical angle, unlike the mask Hickox wore when he suffered his 2005 injury. West is clearly in a unique position as both an equipment designer and third-term President of the World Umpires Association.

For what it's worth, an equally slim sample of Amazon users rated the traditional-style Diamond Sports mask ahead of the comparable Wilson Dyna-Lite model, but Wilson's Shock FX 2.0 beat out all others in the hockey-style mask category—the sampling, however, was likely of amateur officials and certainly not scientific in nature.

At present, the science is inconclusive when it comes to the traditional vs. hockey-style mask debate, but even here, no specific manufacturer was rated higher than another. The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment endorses the HSM over the traditional mask ("For impacts to the face, the hockey-style mask is significantly superior to the traditional catcher’s headgear combination...For umpires to be the safest, they should buy a black catcher’s hockey-style mask because it will have been certified by NOCSAE").