Saturday, April 5, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 035: Mike DiMuro (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Mike DiMuro's safe call in the top of the 2nd inning of the Rangers-Rays game. With none out and none on, Rangers batter Robinson Chirinos hit a 0-0 fastball from Rays pitcher David Price on the ground to shortstop Yunel Escobar who threw to first baseman James Loney as Chirinos arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rays Manager Joe Maddon, DiMuro's ruling that Loney did not catch and tag first base prior to Chirinos' touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Rangers were leading, 2-0. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is Mike DiMuro (16)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Mike DiMuro is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 3/6 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 35th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirm Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 21/35 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 4/5/14
Video: Play overturned; Maddon executes 2nd successful challenge to gain an out (TB)

MLB Instant Replay Review 034: Joe West (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld HP Umpire Joe West's out call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Giants-Dodgers game. With two out and three on, Dodgers batter Andre Ethier hit a 2-2 fastball from Giants pitcher Santiago Casilla on a line drive to right fielder Hunter Pence, who threw to catcher Buster Posey as Dodgers baserunner R2 A.J. Ellis arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly, West's ruling that Posey successfully tagged Ellis while Ellis was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Giants were leading, 7-2. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 7-2.

This is Joe West (22)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Joe West is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Joe West's crew is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 34th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly is now 0/1 (.000 Affirm Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 21/34 (.618 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: San Francisco Giants vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, 4/5/14
Video: Play stands; West wins debut Replay Review as video confirms out on play at the plate (SF)

MLB Instant Replay Review 033: James Hoye (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire James Hoye's out call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Reds-Mets game. With none out and one on, Mets batter Anthony Recker bunted a 1-1 fastball from Reds pitcher J. Hoover to first baseman Joey Votto, who threw to shortstop Ruben Tejada as Mets baserunner R1 Juan Lagares arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Mets Manager Terry Collins, Hoye's ruling that Tejada caught the ball and tagged second base ahead of Lagares' touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Reds were leading, 3-2. The Mets ultimately won the contest, 6-3.

This is James Hoye (92)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
James Hoye is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief John Hirschbeck's crew is now 3/6 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 33rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Mets Manager Terry Collins is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 20/33 (.606 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Cincinnati Reds vs. New York Mets, 4/5/14
Video: Play overturned; Won challenge sets Mets up for game-winning grand slam (NYM)

MLB Instant Replay Review 032: Dana DeMuth (03)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Dana DeMuth's Rule 7.13 home-plate collision violation no-call (safe) in the top of the 3rd inning of the Yankees-Blue Jays game. With two out and one on, Yankees batter Jacoby Ellsbury hit a 1-2 knuckleball from Blue Jays pitcher R.A. Dickey on a line drive to center fielder Colby Rasmus, who threw to catcher Josh Thole as Yankees baserunner R2 Francisco Cervelli arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Yankees Manager Joe Girardi and initiation by Crew Chief DeMuth, DeMuth's ruling that Thole legally tagged Cervelli and did not violate the provisions of the anti-collision Rule 7.13, resulting in an out, was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Blue Jays were leading, 1-0. The Blue Jays ultimately won the contest, 4-0.

This is Dana DeMuth (32)'s third Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Dana DeMuth is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth's crew is now 3/4 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
This is the third Rule 7.13 Replay Review of 2014 (Umpires are 3/3; 1.000 Affirmation Rate).
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 32nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Yankees Manager Joe Girardi is now 1/4 (.250 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 20/32 (.625 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 4/5/14
Video: Play stands; Thole ruled to have possessed the ball prior to positing himself to tag at the plate (NYY)

Friday, April 4, 2014

MLB Replay Review 030: Hunter Wendelstedt (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Hunter Wendelstedt's no catch (trap) call in the top of the 7th inning of the Rangers-Rays game. With two out and one on, Rangers batter J.P. Arencibia hit a 1-0 fastball from Rays pitcher Josh Lueke in the air to right fielder Wil Myers, who slid for the ball with an outstretched glove as it fell towards the ground. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rays Manager Joe Maddon, Wendelstedt's ruling that Myers did not catch the ball before it touched the ground was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Rays were leading, 8-0. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 8-1.

This is Hunter Wendelstedt (21)'s second Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Hunter Wendelstedt is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 3/4 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 30th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 18/30 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 4/4/14
Video: Play overturned; Maddon's challenge reverses Wendelstedt's trap call to end inning (TB)

MLB Instant Replay Review 029, 031: Dana DeMuth (01, 02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Dana DeMuth's out call in the top of the 3rd and confirmed 1B Umpire DeMuth's out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Yankees-Blue Jays game. In the 3rd, with two out and one on, Yankees batter Ichiro Suzuki hit a 3-2 slider from Blue Jays pitcher Dustin McGowan on the ground to second baseman Ryan Goins who threw to first baseman Edwin Encarnacion as Ichiro arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Yankees Manager Joe Girardi, DeMuth's ruling that Encarnacion caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Ichiro's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Blue Jays were leading, 3-2.

In the 8th, with none out and one on, Yankees batter Jacoby Ellsbury hit a 1-0 pitch from Blue Jays pitcher Steve Delabar back off of Delabar, who threw to Encarnacion as Ellsbury arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Yankees Manager Girardi, DeMuth's ruling that Encarnacion caught the ball and kept his foot on first base while in possession was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Yankees were leading, 5-3. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 7-3.

These are Dana DeMuth (32)'s first and second Instant Replay Reviews/Challenges of 2014.
Dana DeMuth is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth's crew is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 29th, 31st Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Yankees Manager Joe Girardi is now 1/2 (.500 Affirm Rate) in Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 19/31 (.613 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 4/4/14
Video: Play overturned; Girardi successfully challenges DeMuth's out call at first base (NYY)
Video: Play stands; After review of line shot to Delabar, Girardi loses his challenge on out (NYY)

MLB Instant Replay Review 028: Ted Barrett (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Ted Barrett's safe call in the top of the 7th inning of the White Sox-Royals game. With none out and one on, White Sox batter Jose Abreu hit a 2-1 fastball from Royals pitcher Francisley Bueno on the ground to third baseman Mike Moustakas, who threw to first baseman Eric Hosmer as Abreu arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Royals Manager Ned Yost, Barrett's ruling that Hosmer did not catch the ball and tag first base with possession, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Royals were leading, 7-4. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 7-5.

This is Ted Barrett (65)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Ted Barrett is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Ted Barrett's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 28th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Royals Manager Ned Yost is now 0/1 (.000 Affirm Rate) in Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 18/28 (.643 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Chicago White Sox vs. Kansas City Royals, 4/4/14
Video: Play stands; Barrett's call of a pulled foot is confirmed as replay maintains the safe call (KC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 027: Marty Foster (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Marty Foster's safe call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Giants-Dodgers game. With none out and one on, Dodgers baserunner R1 Hanley Ramirez attempted to steal second base on a 0-2 fastball from Giants pitcher J Gutierrez, catcher Buster Posey to shortstop Joaquin Arias as Ramirez slid into second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Giants Manager Bruce Bochy, Foster's ruling that Arias did not tag Ramirez prior to Ramirez's foot contacting second base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Giants were leading, 8-4. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 8-4.

This is Marty Foster (60)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Marty Foster is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Joe West's crew is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 27th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Giants Manager Bruce Bochy is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 17/26 (.630 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: San Francisco Giants vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, 4/4/14
Video: Play overturned; Foster's call is reversed as replay shows Ramirez slid into the glove of Arias (SF)

MLB Instant Replay Review 026: Kerwin Danley (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Kerwin Danley's safe call in the top of the 5th inning of the Orioles-Tigers game. With none out and one on, Orioles batter Nick Markakis hit a 1-2 slider from Tigers pitcher Drew Smyly on the ground to second baseman Ian Kinsler, who threw to shortstop Andrew Romine as Orioles baserunner R1 Steve Lombardozzi arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus, Danley's ruling that Romine did not catch or possess the ball while in contact with second base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Tigers were leading, 7-2. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 10-4.

This is Kerwin Danley (44)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Kerwin Danley is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom's crew is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 26th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 17/26 (.654 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Baltimore Orioles vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/4/14
Video: Play stands; Ausmus loses first Manager's Challenge after replay confirms initial out call (DET)

MLB Instant Replay Review 025: Marvin Hudson (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 3B Umpire Marvin Hudson's in play (no lodge/stadium boundary) call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Braves-Nationals game. With none out and none on, Nationals batter Ian Desmond hit a 0-0 curveball from Braves pitcher David Hale on a line to left field and into the left field corner, where the ball came to rest at the base of the outfield wall in foul territory upon which Braves left fielder Justin Upton raised his hands to signal he believed the ball to be out of play. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Braves Manager Fredi Gonzalez, Hudson's ruling that the ball remained in play, resulting in an inside-the-park home run for Desmond, was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 1-1.* The Braves ultimately won the contest, 2-1.

This is Marvin Hudson (51)'s first Instant Replay Review/Challenge of 2014.
Marvin Hudson is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jim Joyce's crew is now 0/2 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.
*At the time of the review, the contest was tied by virtue of the inside-the-park home run call. After the overturn, the score reverted to a 1-0 Atlanta lead.

This is the 25th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Braves Manager Fredi Gonzalez is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 16/25 (.640 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals, 4/4/14
Video: Call overturned; Ball initially ruled in play is determined to be lodged (ATL)

Thursday, April 3, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Reviews 023, 024:* Barber, Gonzalez

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Sean Barber's out (no block) call in the bottom of the 5th inning and 2B Umpire Manny Gonzalez's home run call in the bottom of the 12th inning of the Mariners-Athletics game. In the 5th, with two out and one on, Athletics batter Sam Fuld hit a 2-2 breaking ball from Mariners pitcher Roenis Elias on a line drive to right fielder Logan Morrison, who threw home to second baseman Robinson Cano to catcher Mike Zunino as Fuld arrived at home plate attempting an inside-the-park home run. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by crew chief Fieldin Culbreth, Barber's ruling that Zunino tagged Fuld and did not violate Rule 7.13 in allowing Fuld access to home plate until Zunino was in possession of the baseball was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Mariners were leading, 2-1.

In the 12th, with none out and none on, A's batter Coco Crisp hit a 0-1 fastball from Mariners pitcher Hector Noesi on the fly to deep right-center field for a home run. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon and initiation by Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth, Gonzalez's ruling that Crisp's drive hit dead ball territory above and beyond the outfield wall before bouncing back onto the playing field, thus rendering Crip's fly a home run, was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Athletics had won the ballgame, 3-2, in 12 innings.

This is Sean Barber (29)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Sean Barber is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Manny Gonzalez is now 1/1 (1.00 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 21st instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
A's Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 16/24 (.667 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Seattle Mariners vs. Oakland Athletics (A's), 4/3/14
Video: Play stands; Replay Review confirms Barber's home plate collision no-call (OAK)
Video: Play stands; Umpires review a walk-off HR for the first time, confirming the call (Soon)

*MLB Instant Replay Review 022: Brian Knight (01)
Instant Replay review confirmed HP Umpire Brian Knight's ball three call in the top of the 9th inning of the Yankees-Astros game. With two out and one on, Yankees batter Yangervis Solarte took a 2-1 slider from Astros pitcher Brad Peacock for a called third ball. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of initiation by Crew Chief Gerry Davis, Knight's record keeping ruling of a 3-1 count was affirmed, the call was correct. Solarte walked on the next pitch (ball four). At the time of the review, the Yankees were leading, 4-2. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

This is Brian Knight (91)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014 (he is now 1/1).
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in 2014 Replay Reviews.
This is the 22nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Umpires are now 16/24 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Houston Astros, 4/3/14
Video: Play stands; After batter Solarte disputes the count, the umps review and confirm ball 3 (HOU)

MLB Instant Replay Review 021: Mark Ripperger (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Mark Ripperger's safe (in play) call in the top of the 7th inning of the Cardinals-Reds game. With none out and two on, Cardinals batter Matt Holliday hit a 2-1 cutter from Reds pitcher Trevor Bell to the upper right field wall, off center fielder Billy Hamilton the carom caught by right fielder Jay Bruce. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of an inquiry by Reds Manager Bryan Price and initiation by Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom (home run boundary call), Ripperger's ruling that the ball hit the top of the wall prior to Hamilton's glove, remaining in play was affirmed, the call was correct. Because Ripperger's initial call of safe was proper, the issue of runner placement does not exist for this play. At the time of the review, the Cardinals were leading, 4-3. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 7-6.

This is Mark Ripperger (90)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Mark Ripperger is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 21st instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Reds Manager Bryan Price is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 13/21 (.619 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: St. Louis Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Reds, 4/3/14
Video: Play stands; Umpires elect to use Crew Chief Review to confirm Ripperger's single call (STL)

MLB Replay Reviews 019, 020: Layne, Wendelstedt (2, 1)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Jerry Layne's safe call in the bottom of the 3rd and 2B Umpire Hunter Wendelstedt's safe call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Rockies-Marlins game. In the 3rd, two out and one on, Marlins batter Marcell Ozuna hit a 0-2 fastball from Rockies pitcher Franklin Morales on the ground to second baseman Charlie Culberson, who threw to first baseman Michael Cuddyer as Ozuna arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rockies Manager Walt Weiss, Layne's ruling that Cuddyer did not legally tag first base via a touch with his foot was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Rockies were leading, 4-2.

In the 8th, with two out and one on, Rockies baserunner Christian Yelich attempted to steal second off Marlins pitcher Matt Belisle, catcher Willin Rosario to second baseman DJ LeMahieu. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Rockies Manager Walt Weiss and initiation by Crew Chief Jerry Layne, Wendelstedt's ruling that LeMahieu did not tag Yelich while Yelich was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 5-5. The Marlins ultimately won the contest, 8-5.

This is Jerry Layne (24)'s second instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
This is Hunter Wendelstedt (21)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Jerry Layne is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Hunter Wendelstedt is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 3/3 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

These are the 19th and 20th instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rockies Manager Walt Weiss is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 12/20 (.600 Affirmation) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Colorado Rockies vs. Miami Marlins, 4/3/14
Video: Play stands; Jerry Layne's second pulled foot call in two days is reviewed & affirmed (COL)
Video: Play stands; Weiss asks Layne for a Crew Chief review, which is granted and confirmed (COL)

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Replay Reviews 015-018: Tumpane, Davidson, Hirschbeck

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire John Tumpane's out call in the top of, confirmed HP Umpire Bob Davidson's foul ball call in the bottom of the 8th and confirmed John Hirschbeck's safe call in the bottom of the 13th inning of the Cubs-Pirates game. In the top frame, with one out and two on, Cubs batter Nate Schierholtz hit a 2-1 cutter from Pirates pitcher Mark Melancon on the ground to second baseman Neil Walker, who threw to shortstop Jordy Mercer to first baseman Travis Ishikawa, Cubs R1 Anthony Rizzo attempting to advance to second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Tumpane's ruling that Mercer had control of the ball and was not drawn off the base was reversed, the call was incorrect.* At the time of the review, the Pirates were leading, 2-0.

In the bottom of the 8th, with none out and none on, Pirates batter Starling Marte attempted to bunt a 0-1 fastball from Cubs pitcher Pedro Strop and jumped back, either the bat or Marte's person making contact with the pitch. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, Davidson's ruling that the pitched ball struck Marte's bat, resulting in a foul ball back to the screen, was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Pirates were leading, 2-1.

In the bottom of the 13th, with none out and two on, Pirates batter Walker bunted a 0-0 change up from Cubs pitcher Wesley Wright back to Wright, who threw to third baseman Luis Valbuena as Pirates baserunner R2 Pedro Alvarez arrived at third base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Renteria, Hirschbeck's ruling that Valbuena did not receive the throw and tag third base prior to Alvarez's arrival at the bag was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 3-3. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 4-3, in 16 innings.

This is John Tumpane (74)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Bob Davidson (61)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is John Hirschbeck (17)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
John Tumpane is now 0/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Bob Davidson is now 2/3 (.666 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
John Hirschbeck is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief John Hirschbeck's crew is now 3/5 (.600 Affirmation %) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.
*This is a reviewable play pursuant to MLB's Replay Review Regulations. Not reviewable is the umpire's judgment that a runner is clearly out on a force play at second base under the circumstances in which the defensive player may or may not have touched second base in his attempt to complete a double play and avoid a collision with the runner. All other elements of the call shall be subject to review, including whether the fielder caught the ball, had control of the ball, was drawn off the bag, or tagged the runner.

These are the 15th, 16th and 18th instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 10/18 (.556 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 4/2/14
Video: Play overturned; Replay Official deems Mercer did not voluntarily vacate second base (CHC)
Video: Play confirmed; Davidson's initial ruling of foul is upheld after challenge and review (PIT)
Video: Play confirmed; Renteria challenges extra-inning safe call to no avail, call stays (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 014: Jerry Layne (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Jerry Layne's safe call in the top of the 4th inning of the Rockies-Marlins game. With none out and two on, Rockies batter DJ LeMahieu hit a 1-0 fastball from Marlins pitcher Henderson Alvarez to second baseman Derek Dietrich, who threw to shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria as Rockies baserunner R1 Jordan Pacheco arrived at second. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Marlins Manager Mike Redmond, Layne's ruling that Hechavarria failed to tag second base while in possession of the ball was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Rockies were leading, 3-1. The Rockies ultimately won the contest, 6-5.

This is Jerry Layne (24)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Jerry Layne is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 14th instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Marlins Manager Mike Redmond is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 8/14 (.571 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Colorado Rockies vs. Miami Marlins, 4/2/14
Video: Play stands; Marlins lose a challenge after Jerry Layne's pulled foot call is reviewed (MIA)

MLB Replay Review 013, 017: Wegner, Morales (01, 01)

Instant Replay Review upheld HP Umpire Mark Wegner's safe call in the bottom of the 2nd inning of Game 1 and overturned 2B Umpire Gabe Morales' out call in the top of the 6th inning of Game 2 of the Indians-Athletics doubleheader. In Game 1, with one out and two on, Athletics batter Josh Donaldson hit a 1-0 slider from Indians pitcher Corey Kluber on the ground to third baseman Carlos Santana, who threw to catcher Yan Gomes as Athletics baserunner R3 Derek Norris arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge from Athletics Manager Bob Melvin, Wegner's ruling that Gomes tagged Norris while he was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Athletics were leading, 2-0. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 6-1.

In Game 2, with one out and one on, Indians baserunner R1 Mike Aviles attempted to steal second base with Elliot Johnson batting, the throw from Athletics catcher John Jaso to second baseman Nick Punto arriving with Aviles at second base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Indians Manager Terry Francona, Morales' ruling that Punto tagged Aviles prior to Aviles' touch of second base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Athletics were leading, 3-2. The Indians ultimately won the contest, 6-4.

This is Mark Wegner (14)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
This is Gabe Morales (47)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Mark Wegner is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Gabe Morales is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 2/3 (.666 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 13th instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Indians Manager Terry Francona is now 1/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 9/17 (.529 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Oakland Athletics, 4/2/14
Video: Play stands; Fielder's choice out at home upheld after Wegner punches out Norris (OAK)
Video: Play overturned; Morales has a call reversed in second big league game (CLE)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Gabe Morales (47)

Umpire Gabe Morales made his MLB debut during Wednesday's Indians-Athletics doubleheader, working the bases for both billings. Morales joined Mike Winters crew for the set, officiating from the third base position during Game 1 with 2B Umpire Winters, 1B Umpire Mike Muchlinski and HP Umpire Mark Wegner. During Game 2, Morales occupied second base with U3 Muchlinski, U1 Winters and UIC Andy Fletcher.

Hooked: Morales handles a situation in 2012.
Morales is on the International League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his third season in the IL and AAA. Morales is a 2009 graduate of the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring and was placed in the Rookie-level Arizona League following a successful PBUC evaluation course. He was then promoted to the New York-Penn, South Atlantic, Arizona Instructional, Texas, International and, presently, Pacific Coast League. He was also assigned to the 2013 Arizona Fall League and officiated that summer's XM All-Star Futures Game with Pat Hoberg in Queens, New York.

In 2010, Morales vowed to keep working hard: "keep my nose down and do what I'm told, then I'll be rewarded...We're all looking to make it, but at the same time, you never know what could happen."

PHOTO: After being given the boot by Morales in 2012, Corpus Christi Hooks Manager Keith Bodie remarked, "It was the worst call I've ever seen in 38 years of professional baseball [referring to an out call on a stolen base attempt]...It was the most blatantly irresponsible call I've ever seen in my life."

The 6-0, 185-pound Morales makes his MLB debut at the age of 29 and resides in Livermore, California. He wears the sleeve number 47, previously worn by his Game 1 Umpire-in-Chief Wegner, who had a call upheld via Instant Replay Review during the game.

MLB Instant Replay Review 012: Dale Scott (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Dale Scott's out call in the top of the 4th inning of the Twins-White Sox game. With none out and one on, Twins batter Oswaldo Arcia hit a 1-2 change up from White Sox pitcher Daniel Webb in the air to center fielder Adam Eaton, who attempted to catch the ball as it entered his glove. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire, Scott's ruling that Eaton possessed the ball and its release to the ground was voluntary and intentional was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Twins were leading, 5-3. The White Sox ultimately won the contest, 7-6, in 11 innings.

This is Dale Scott (5)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Dale Scott is now 0/1 (.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Dale Scott's crew is now 0/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 12th instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Twins Manager Ron Gardenhire is now 1/1 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 6/12 (.500 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Minnesota Twins vs. Chicago White Sox, 4/2/14
Video: Play overturned; Gardy challenges the initial catch ruling, drawing a reversal and error (MIN)

MLB Instant Replays 010, 011: Chris Conroy (01, 02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Chris Conroy's out call in the bottom of the 6th and safe call in the top of the 10th inning of the Royals-Tigers game. In the 6th, with none out and two on, Tigers batter Tyler Collins hit a 1-1 curveball from Royals pitcher Jason Vargas on the ground to second baseman Omar Infante, who threw to shortstop Alcides Escobar to first baseman Eric Hosmer as Collins arrived at first base, Tigers baserunner R1 Ian Kinsler out at second. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus, Conroy's ruling that the Hosmer caught and tagged first base prior to Collins' touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Tigers were leading, 1-0.

In the 10th, with two out and one on, Royals batter Nori Aoki hit a 0-2 slider from Tigers pitcher Al Alburquerque on the ground back to Alburquerque, who threw to first baseman Miguel Cabrera as Aoki arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Tigers Manager Ausmus, Conroy's ruling that Cabrera did not catch and tag first base prior to Aoki's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 1-1. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 2-1, in 10 innings.

These are Chris Conroy (98)'s first and second instant replay challenges/reviews of 2014.
Chris Conroy (98) is now 0/2 (.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Meals' crew is now 0/2 (.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

These are the 10th and 11th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus is now 2/2 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 6/11 (.545 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Kansas City Royals vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/2/14
Video: Play overturned: Tigers go first and third with one out after successful challenge (DET)
Video: Play overturned; Ausmus completes final challenge, the first Mgr to go 2/2 in one game (DET)
Video: Definitive Angle; 6th inning out call is overturned, runner is placed at first base (MLBAM)

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 009: Chris Guccione (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Chris Guccione's safe call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Giants-Diamondbacks game. With two out and one on, Giants pitcher Matt Cain threw to first baseman Brandon Belt as Diamondbacks baserunner R1 A.J. Pollock dove back into first base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Giants Manager Bruce Bochy, Guccione's ruling that Belt did not tag Pollock before Pollock's return and touch of first base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Giants were leading, 4-2. The Diamondbacks ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is Chris Guccione (68)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Chris Guccione is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Tom Hallion's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 9th instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Giants Manager Bruce Bochy is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 6/9 (.667 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: San Francisco Giants vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 4/1/14
Video: Play stands; Guccione rules Cain's pickoff attempt failed, replay upholds on-field call (SF)
Related Video: After losing a challenge, Giants are unable to challenge another close call (ARI)

MLB Instant Replay Reviews 007, 008: Jim Wolf (01, 02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Jim Wolf's foul ball call in the top of the 7th and out call in the top of the 9th inning of the Blue Jays-Rays game. In the 7th, with one out and none on, Blue Jays batter Colby Rasmus hit a 1-1 fastball from Rays pitcher Josh Lueke to deep right field and past the foul pole. Upon instant replay review as the result of a request by Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons and initiation by Crew Chief Brian Gorman, Wolf's ruling that the Rasmus fly ball exited the playing field to the right of the foul line - in foul territory - was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Blue Jays were leading, 4-0.

In the 9th, with two out and none on, Blue Jays batter Melky Cabrera hit a 3-2 fastball from Blue Jays pitcher Jake McGee to third baseman Evan Longoria, who threw to first baseman James Loney as Cabrera arrived at first base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Blue Jays Manager Gibbons, Wolf's ruling that Loney successfully caught the ball and tagged first base by legally maintaining contact and touching the bag with his left foot while in possession of the baseball and prior to Cabrera's own touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Blue Jays were leading, 4-1. The Blue Jays ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

These are Jim Wolf (28)'s first and second instant replay challenges/reviews of 2014.
Jim Wolf (28) is now 2/2 (1.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Brian Gorman's crew is now 2/2 (1.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

These are the 7th and 8th instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 5/8 (.625 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 4/1/14
Video: Play stands; Jim Wolf's seventh-inning foul ball call is supported by Instant Replay (TB)
Video: Play stands; Longoria and Loney combine for great play as Cabrera's out is confirmed (TB)
Video: Definitive Angle; Wolf's out call is confirmed by the Replay Officials in New York (MLBAM)

MLB Instant Replay Review 006: Cory Blaser (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Cory Blaser's safe call in the top of the 6th inning of the Phillies-Rangers game. With one out and two on, Rangers pitcher Martin Perez threw to second baseman Donnie Murphy as Phillies baserunner R2 Ben Revere dove back into second base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Rangers Manager Ron Washington, Blaser's ruling that Murphy did not tag Revere before Revere's return and touch of second base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Phillies were leading, 1-0. The Rangers ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Cory Blaser (89)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Cory Blaser (89) is now 0/1 (.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jim Joyce's crew is now 0/1 (.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

UEFL Prop Bet #6 (Team Requesting First Instant Replay Review IN APRIL, Rangers and Blue Jays simultaneously requested Replay Reviews) Winners are:
5 points - Houston Orange, TXWrangler (Texas Rangers [only])
3 points - craigplaisted (Angels, Dodgers, Rangers), toss 'em (Pirates, Toronto Blue Jays, Mariners)
1 point - cyclone14 (Angels, Indians, Dodgers, Yankees, Blue Jays)
CongratulationsNo UEFL member guessed both the Rangers and the Blue Jays.

This is the 6th instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rangers Manager Ron Washington is now 1/1 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 3/6 (.500 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Philadelphia Phillies vs. Texas Rangers, 4/1/14
Video: Play overturned; Perez credited with a successful pickoff after replay reverses the call (TEX)
Video: Definitive Angle; Replay Official overturns call based on lower third camera angle (MLBAM)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Sean Barber (29)

Umpire Sean Barber made his MLB debut Opening Night during the Dodgers-Padres game in San Diego. Barber joined Fieldin Culbreth's crew Sunday night and Tuesday afternoon, working alongside Jim Reynolds, Manny Gonzalez and Culbreth. Culbreth's umpiring crew L is one of several crews that will feature a Triple-A fill-in umpire for the 2014 regular season.

Umpire Sean Barber motions for new baseballs.
Photo: Mark Rebilas/USA Today 
Barber is on the International League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his third season in the IL and AAA. Hoberg is a 2006 graduate of the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School and began his career with Minor League Baseball in the Appalachian League, before promotions to the South Atlantic, Florida State, Southern, Arizona Instructional and Venezuelan Leagues preceded his IL appointment. Barber worked the 2012 Arizona Fall League Rising Stars Game and 2013 World Baseball Classic qualifying stage in Jupiter, Florida.

An umpire himself, Barber's father encouraged Barber to take up the craft, a vision that was not realized until Barber happened upon a fateful experience while attending Hillsborough Community College.

Working at a pet store to supplement his freshman summer schedule, Barber suffered an eel bite on his right hand and through the bone, resulting in 27 stitches and making Barber unable to write or attend classes. Barber went to Umpire School that January.

At the time, Barber said he was umpiring for the love of the game: "There's probably not a chance to make it. The odds are so against you." During 2014's Opening Series, the odds turned favorable.

Barber resides in Lakeland, FL and wears the sleeve uniform number 29, last worn by MLB umpire Bill Hohn who retired in 2012 after 21 years of MLB service due to chronic injury. The 5-foot-9, 190-pound Barber, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 28, is an alum of Grand View University (then GV College) in Des Moines, IA. Barber was part of the MiLB crew assigned to the Arizona Fall League instant replay experiment in November 2013 and was two-for-two (100% accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014 MLB Spring Training.

Monday, March 31, 2014

2014 UEFL Appeals Board Roster

The 2014 UEFL Appeals Board roster is now final. Throughout the 2014 season, Appeals Board decisions and pending cases will be posted to the UEFL Portal's Appeals Board page. The following members were selected to represent the Appeals Board for the 2014 UEFL season:

UEFL Commissioner Gil Imber, Chair and Appellate Interpreter - Ex-Officio Member
» Founder and owner, Umpire Ejection Fantasy League's The Left Field Corner (2006-11) and Close Call Sports (2011-present)...Rules Featured Columnist, Bleacher Report (2011-2013)...Former football and baseball, present basketball official...UEFL Appeals Board (2012-present).

Deputy UEFL Commissioner Jeremy Dircks - Ex-Officio Member
» Umpire Ejection Fantasy League and Close Call Sports Staff (2011-present)...Former Kern County football, basketball and baseball official...Officer, United States Navy...UEFL Appeals Board (2012-present).

Senior Member tmac
» Former baseball official...Has worked with several present MiLB and MLB umpires...Author of several key 2012 UEFL Appeals Board decisions...Returning for a third term on the UEFL Appeals Board (2012-present).

Senior Member RichMSN
» 25 years umpiring experience, high school and college...Ardent student of the rules; Jim Evans Annotated, Jaksa/Roder, Wendelstedt Manual, PBUC Manual, Childress BRD, MLB Umpire Manual Rule Interpretations...Returning for a third term on the UEFL Appeals Board (2012-present).

Ranking Member Arik G (formerly BT_Blue)
» Nearly 20 years of umpiring experience, youth through college and semi-professional...Formerly a 2012 Appeals Board candidate...Returning for a second term on the UEFL Appeals Board (2013-present).

Ranking Member Turducken
» Has officiated high school baseball and, professionally, Single-A MiLB...Former UEFL observer and 2012 participant...Returning for a second term on the UEFL Appeals Board (2013-present).

Member JD
» Graduate of the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring (JEAPU), former MiLB Umpire and JEAPU apprentice instructor...Holds a juris doctor (hence JD) and clerks for a federal judge in Manhattan...Inaugural term on the UEFL Appeals Board.

New this season: The following candidates were appointed to the 2014 UEFL Appeals Board, but do not have voting power, pursuant to UEFL Rule restrictions concerning maximum voting members.

Non-Voting Member johnnyg08
» Student of the rules with Jim Evans Annotated, Jaksa/Roder, Wendelstedt, PBUC, Childress BRD and MLB Umpire Manuals...Inaugural term on the UEFL Appeals Board.

Non-Voting Member Joe Gravina
» 15 years umpiring experience, LL to NCAA...Has worked the ECAC D3 playoffs, RI American Legion Playoffs and Finals...Director of Training for the Rhode Island Umpires Association...Inaugural term on the UEFL Appeals Board.

Non-Voting Member cyclone14
» High school umpire and UEFL participant since The Left Field Corner...Surgical resident located in Ontario, Canada...Inaugural term on the UEFL Appeals Board.

Roster: 2014 NCAA Final Four Officials

The 2014 NCAA Final Four Officials roster has been released and the following referees were selected to work the 2014 tournament's semifinal and championship game rounds, either as an on-court official or as a table-side alternate.

• Pat Adams, Mobile, Alabama
• Joe DeRosa, North Canton, Ohio
• Verne Harris, Denver, Colorado
• John Higgins, Omaha, Nebraska
• Michael Roberts, Atlanta, Georgia
• Doug Shows, Rome, Georgia
• Doug Sirmons, Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Michael Stephens, Cranston, Rhode Island
• Mike Stuart, Maryville, Tennessee
• Terry Wymer, North Baltimore, Ohio

MLB Instant Replay Review 005: Mike Winters (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Mike Winters' out call in the top of the 6th inning of the Indians-Athletics game. With one out and two on, Indians batter Asdrubal Cabrera hit a 0-0 slider from Athletics pitcher Sonny Gray back to Gray who threw to catcher John Jaso as Indians baserunner R3 Michael Brantley arrived at home plate. Upon instant replay review as the result of a request by Indians Manager Terry Francona and initiation by Crew Chief Winters, Winters' ruling that Jaso legally provided Brantley with a path to home plate until such time at which Jaso caught the ball and tag Brantley pursuant to Rule 7.13 (home-plate collision) was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Indians ultimately won the contest, 2-0.

This is Mike Winters (33)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Mike Winters (33) is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chief: Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 5th instant replay review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Indians Manager Terry Francona is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Requests in 2014.
Umpires are now 3/5 (.600 Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Oakland Athletics (MLB Opening Day 2014), 3/31/14
Video: Play stands; Out call is affirmed as umpires rule Jaso did not violate anti-collision rule (OAK)
Video: Definitive Angle: Replay Official confirmed the call / Zoomed High Home Angle (MLBAM)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Pat Hoberg (31)

Umpire Pat Hoberg made his MLB debut Opening Day during the Giants-Diamondbacks game in Arizona. Hoberg joined Tom Hallion's crew Monday night and umpired at third base, working alongside 2B Umpire Chris Guccione, 1B Umpire Eric Cooper and Home Plate Umpire Hallion. Hallion's umpiring crew K is one of several crews that will feature a Triple-A fill-in umpire for the 2014 regular season.

Pat Hoberg working MLB Replay Review
Hoberg is on the Pacific Coast League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his first full season in the PCL (second overall) and as a AAA umpire. Hoberg is a 2009 graduate of the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring and began his career with Minor League Baseball in the Arizona League, working the Appalachian, Florida State and Texas Leagues before his promotion to the PCL. Hoberg worked the 2013 All-Star Futures Game at Citi Field in New York City, which draws an MLB All-Star Home Run Derby assignment as collateral, and the 2013 Arizona Fall League All-Star Game ("Fall Stars").

After Hoberg ejected South Bend Silver Hawks Manager Mark Haley in June 2011, Haley predicted, "it's going to be a long ways to go before [Hoberg] reaches his goal."

Fast-forward to 2014 and Haley is still managing the Single-A South Bend Hawks, minor-league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, whose game Hoberg is working at the big-league level Monday.

Hoberg resides in Urbandale, Iowa and wears the sleeve uniform number 31, last worn by veteran MLB crew chief Mike Reilly. The 6-foot-1, 208-pound Hoberg, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 27, is an alum of Grand View University (then GV College) in Des Moines, IA. Hoberg was part of the MiLB crew assigned to the Arizona Fall League instant replay experiment in November 2013 and was two-for-two (100% accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014 MLB Spring Training.

Other umpires from the Iowa area include Tim McClelland (resides in), Eric Cooper (from Des Moines), Mike Everitt (lives in Iowa) and, yes, the retired Mike Reilly (from Sioux City).

MLB Instant Replay Review 004: Clint Fagan (01)

Instant replay affirmed 1B Umpire Clint Fagan's out call in the top of the 10th inning of the Nationals-Mets game. With two out and none on, Nationals batter Danny Espinosa hit a 0-0 fastball from Mets pitcher John Lannan to third baseman David Wright, who threw to first baseman Lucas Duda as Espinosa arrived at first base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Nationals Manager Matt Williams, Fagan's ruling that Duda tagged Espinosa while Espinosa was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Nationals were leading, 9-5. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 9-7.

This is Clint Fagan (82)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Clint Fagan (82) is now 1/1 (100% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Tim Welke's crew is now 1/1 (100% Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Jeff Kellogg, Larry Vanover.

This is the 4th instant replay review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Nationals Manager Matt Williams is now 0/1 (0% Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Inquiries in 2014.
Umpires are now 2/4 (50% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. New York Mets (MLB Opening Day 2014), 3/31/14
Video: Play stands; Out call is upheld after Replay determines Espinosa was indeed tagged off base (WAS)

MLB Instant Replay Review 002: Greg Gibson (01)

Instant replay reversed 1B Umpire Greg Gibson's safe call in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Braves-Brewers game. With none out and none on, Brewers batter Ryan Braun hit a 0-1 changeup from Braves pitcher Julio Teheran to third baseman Chris Johnson, who threw to first baseman Freddie Freeman as Braun arrived at first base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Braves Manager Fredi Gonzalez, Gibson's ruling that Freeman did not catch the ball and tag first base prior to Braun's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect.* At the time of the review, the Brewers were leading, 2-0. The Brewers ultimately won the contest, 2-0.

This is Greg Gibson (53)'s first instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Greg Gibson (53) is now 0/1 (0% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Ted Barrett's crew is now 0/1 (0% Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
*This is the first regular season instant replay review via challenge to be overturned in MLB history.
Listed Replay Crew Chiefs: Jeff Kellogg, Larry Vanover.

This is the 2nd instant replay review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Braves Manager Fredi Gonzalez is now 1/1 (100% Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Inquiries in 2014.
Umpires are now 1/2 (50% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Atlanta Braves vs. Milwaukee Brewers (MLB Opening Day 2014), 3/31/14
Video: Play overturned; Braun out following instant replay-aided call; announcers flub rule (ATL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 001, 003: Bob Davidson (01, 03)

Instant replay affirmed 1B Umpire Bob Davidson's out call in the top of the 5th inning and reversed Davidson's safe call in the top of the 10th inning of the Cubs-Pirates game. In the 5th, with two out and one on, Cubs batter Jeff Samardzija ground bunted a 1-1 fastball from Pirates pitcher Francisco Liriano back to Liriano, who threw to third baseman Pedro Alvarez to second baseman Neil Walker, covering first, as Samardzija arrived at first base, Cubs baserunner R2 Nate Schierholtz out at third. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Davidson's ruling that Walker caught and tagged first base prior to Samardzija's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct.* At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0.

In the 10th inning, with one out and one on, Pirates pitcher Bryan Morris threw to first baseman Travis Ishikawa in an attempt to pick off Cubs baserunner R1 Emilio Bonifacio as Bonfacio slid into first base. Upon instant replay review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, 1B Umpire Davidson's ruling that Ishikawa did not tag Bonifacio prior to his return to first base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 1-0, in 10 innings.

These are Bob Davidson (61)'s first and second instant replay challenge/review of 2014.
Bob Davidson (61) is now 1/2 (50% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief John Hirschbeck's crew is now 1/2 (50% Accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
*This is the first regular season instant replay review via challenge in MLB history.
Replay Official: Larry Vanover. MLBAM Technician: Timothy Akins.

These are the 1st and 3rd instant replay reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 0/1 (0% Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Inquiries in 2014.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 1/1 (100% Success) in Instant Replay Challenges in 2014.
Umpires are now 1/3 (33% Accuracy) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 season.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB Opening Day 2014), 3/31/14
Video: Play stands; Davidson's out call becomes first ever challenged play during Regular Season (CHC)
Video: Play overturned: Morris and Ishikawa pick of Bonifacio in extras as Hurdle wins first review (PIT)

MLB Releases Replay Review Regulations for 2014 Season

MLB released its official Replay Review Regulations for instant replay in its expanded form for 2014.

In crafting the regulations, Major League Baseball stopped short of calling "Replay Review" an actual rule, deferring to a more formal model than the 2008 directive and bulletin issued by Commissioner Bud Selig in regards to that season's introduction of limited instant replay for home run-related boundary calls.

What follows is a summary of the Major League Baseball Replay Review Regulations, parsed and organized for UEFL'ers and fans of the game (Or if you are legally inclined and/or UmpAttyread the raw text here):

I. Overview
MLB defines video instant replay review in the Overview, declaring its mission "to provide timely review of certain disputed calls in all Championship Season, All-Star and PostSeason games played in the 30 Major League ballparks (and, beginning in 2015, in any ballpark at which a Major League Championship Season game is played"—Sydney Cricket Ground, MLB's looking at you). The overview states such replay review may be used to reverse or confirm an umpire's on-field call. Elastic Clause power for the Replay Review Regulations is defined and rests with the Commissioner's Office.

II. Challenging and Reviewing Calls Pursuant to Replay Review (MLB error - no section # given)
The Manager shall be responsible for invoking challenges where applicable while the umpiring Crew Chief is responsible for determining whether a Manager Challenge has been properly and timely made. The Crew Chief is also empowered to initiate his own review, where appropriate and allowed.

B. Manager Challenges (MLB error - Regulations omit subsection "A")
Each team receives one Manager Challenge to start each game. Using this challenge, the Manager may:
> Challenge as many reviewable calls within a single play as he desires using the one challenge;
> If the Replay Official does not overturn any calls challenged, the team loses its challenge ability;
> If the Replay Official overturns any of the calls challenged, the team receives one additional challenge;
> After this second challenge is exhausted, the team/Manager no longer has the ability to challenge.
The Manager is the only person on the team authorized to initiate Replay Review via challenge or inquiry, unless he cannot due to: injury, illness, ejection or any other "legitimate reason."

To invoke a Manager Challenge, the Manager shall approach the Umpire who made the call(s) up for review or the Crew Chief if the call was made after crew conference. Requests are made verbally.

If the Umpire prompts the Manager (e.g., "would you like to challenge?"), the Manager must respond immediately that he intends to challenge. If he fails to do so, he loses the right to challenge that play.

C. Crew Chief Reviews
Crew Chiefs shall be empowered, in his sole discretion, to initiate Replay Reviews at any time for:
> Potential home run calls (as in the 2008-2013 grandfathered limited replay clause);
> Questions of collisions at home plate rule violations, as in OBR Experimental Rule 7.13.

Crew Chiefs may conduct Replay Reviews in the 7th inning or later (since changed to the 8th inning) upon his own initiative if a team is out of challenges or upon the request of a Manager, but only if this Manager has no remaining Manager Challenges. The Crew Chief may also refuse to honor the Manager's request. The Crew Chief is not permitted to initiate Replay Review if the requesting Manager has a Manager Challenge remaining (team must be out of challenges).

D. Timing of Manager Challenges and Crew Chief Reviews

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Discussions: Opening Night 2014 (Dodgers vs. Padres)

Your Opening Night umpires for Dodgers-Padres: HP: Fieldin Culbreth (crew chief). 1B: Manny Gonzalez. 2B: Jim Reynolds. 3B: Sean Barber (filling in for Brian Knight). The UEFL opens the floor for Opening Night 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.

- 3/30/14, LAD@SD, NL West: HP Umpire Fieldin Culbreth: pfx (83/88 Balls + 46/55 Strikes = 129/143 = 90.2%).

Close or Notable Plays
- Cashner's throw beats AJ Ellis to third base on a bunt by Ryu in the fifth (3B Umpire Barber)
- Dodgers complete the 3-6-3 double play on backend grab by Adrian Gonzalez (1B Umpire Gonzalez)

2014 UEFL Prop Predictions: Opening Day Edition

UEFL Prop Predictions return in 2014 as Opening Night Baseball stands on deck. Prop Predictions are yet another way to earn League points during the season and are side wagers as to events that may happen at some point during 2014. For instance, a Prop Prediction that reads, "Date of: First Marlins ejection" may be answered with "April 25." If the date of the first Marlins ejection indeed occurs on April 25, the member responding with that date will win the Prop Prediction and receive a specified amount of points. Multiple winners would each receive that specified amount of points. To enter your prop predictions for 2014, consult and submit this form. Alternately, you may reply to this post if you are unable to access the form. Prop Board No. 1 must be submitted by Monday, March 31, at 11:00 AM Pacific Time.

For reference, Prop Board No. 1: 2014 Season is included below.
 1. Name of Umpire: First regular season ejection (1-5 points, sliding scale)
 2. Date of: First ejection of a non-player and non-manager (2 points)
 3. Date of: First ejection for Throwing At and/or Fighting (2 points)
 4. Date of: Umpire Jordan Baker's first ejection of 2014 (2 points)
 5. Name of Manager: First ejection of April 2014 (1-5 points, sliding scale)
 6. Team Requesting First Instant Replay Review IN APRIL (2 points)
 7. Reason for first ejection of 2014 (1-5 points, sliding scale)
 8. Date of: First Cardinals ejection (2 points)

For more information about Prop Predictions, including a sliding scale explanation, see UEFL Rule 4-6.