Saturday, April 12, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 079: Angel Hernandez (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B umpire Angel Hernandez's out call in the top of the 3rd inning of the Nationals-Braves game. With none out and one on, Nationals batter Nate McLouth bunted a 0-0 fastball from Braves pitcher Alex Wood to third baseman Chris Johnson, who threw to first baseman Freddie Freeman as McLouth arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Nationals Manager Matt Williams, Hernandez's ruling that Freeman caught the ball and tagged first base ahead of McLouth's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Braves were leading, 4-1. The Braves ultimately won the contest, 6-3.

This is Angel Hernandez (55)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Angel Hernandez is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Larry Vanover's crew is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 79th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Nationals Manager Matt Williams is now 0/4 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 53/79 (.671 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta Braves, 4/12/14
Video: Play stands; Nats' challenge falls short as broadcasters decry Instant Replay Review (WAS)
Related: Angel jogs out to right field wall to confirm lodged ball call, two-base award (WAS)

MLB Instant Replay Review 078: Vic Carapazza (03)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Vic Carapazza's out call in the top of the 9th inning of the Pirates-Brewers game. With none out and one on, Pirates batter Russell Martin hit a 1-2 change up from Brewers pitcher Francisco Rodriguez on the ground to third baseman Aramis Ramirez, who threw to second baseman Scooter Gennett to first baseman Mark Reynolds as Martin arrived at first base, Pirates baserunner R1 Josh Harrison out at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, Carapazza's ruling that Reynolds caught the baseball and maintained contact with first base for a legal tag ahead of Martin's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Brewers were leading, 3-2. The Brewers ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Vic Carapazza (19)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Vic Carapazza is now 3/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Bill Miller's crew is now 5/5 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 78th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 52/78 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Milwaukee Brewers, 4/12/14
Video: Play stands; Video confirms 's right foot remained on first base for the out (MIL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 077: Mike Winters (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Mike Winters' safe call in the top of the 8th inning of the Tigers-Padres game. With one out and one on, Padres catcher Yasmani Grandal attempted to pickoff Tigers baserunner Nick Castellanos, Grandal to Padres shortstop Everth Cabrera as Castellanos dove back into second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Padres Manager Bud Black, Winters' ruling that Cabrera did not tag Castellanos prior to Castellanos' retreat into second base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Tigers were leading, 4-2. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 6-2.

This is Mike Winters (33)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mike Winters is now 1/2 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 3/7 (.429 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 77th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Padres Manager Bud Black is now 1/1 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 51/77 (.662 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Detroit Tigers vs. San Diego Padres, 4/12/14
Video: Play overturned; Replay reverses the call, giving the Padres an eight-inning second out (SD)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Jeff Gosney (40)

Umpire Jeff Gosney made his MLB debut during Blue Jays-Orioles Game 2 Saturday evening in Baltimore. Gosney joined acting chief Paul Emmel's crew, serving as Saturday's third base umpiring alongside 2B Umpire Jordan Baker, 1B Umpire Chris Conroy and home plate umpire Emmel.

Gosney is on the International League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his fourth season in the IL and AAA. Gosney began his career with Minor League Baseball in the Gulf Coast League, with service in the Appalachian, Midwest, Florida Instructional, Florida State, Texas and Venezuelan Leagues along the way, having been selected to officiate Texas and International League playoffs.

Gosney is from Newark, Ohio and resides in Lakeland, FL and wears the sleeve uniform number 40. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Gosney, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 30, is an alum of Ohio State University, where he earned a degree in Accounting. Gosney officiated the 2013 Arizona Fall League and was one-for-two (100% accuracy) in Replay Reviews during 2014 MLB Spring Training. He ejected Nationals left fielder Bryce Harper on March 26 for arguing an out call at first base (QOC = Correct).

MLB Instant Replay Review 076: Chris Conroy (03)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Chris Conroy's safe call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Blue Jays-Orioles game. With one out and one on, Orioles batter Steve Lombardozzi bunted a 1-0 fastball from Blue Jays pitcher Drew Hutchison on the ground back to Hutchison, who threw to first baseman Edwin Encarnacion as Lombardozzi arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons, Conroy's ruling that Encarnacion did not catch the ball and properly tag first base prior to Lombardozzi's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Orioles ultimately won the contest, 2-1, in 12 innings.

This is Chris Conroy (98)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Chris Conroy is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Paul Emmel's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 76th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons is now 0/5 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 51/76 (.671 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles, 4/12/14
Video: Play stands; Replay does not overturn Conroy's pulled foot call, resulting in an error (TOR)

MLB Instant Replay Review 075: Gary Cederstrom (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Gary Cederstrom's safe call in the top of the 2nd inning of the Marlins-Phillies game. With two out and three on, Marlins batter Giancarlo Stanton hit a 3-0 fastball from Phillies pitcher Jonathan Pettibone on the ground to second baseman Chase Utley, who threw to shortstop Jimmy Rollins as Marlins baserunner R2 Marcell Ozuna arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Phillies Manager Ryne Sandberg, Cederstrom's ruling that Rollins did not catch the throw and tag second base prior to Ozuna's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Marlins were leading, 3-2. The Phillies ultimately won the contest, 5-4, in 10 innings.

This is Gary Cederstrom (38)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gary Cederstrom is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom's crew is now 2/4 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 75th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Phillies Manager Ryne Sandberg is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 50/75 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Miami Marlins vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 4/12/14
Video: Play overturned; Phillies' successful second-inning challenge saves two runs (PHI)

MLB Instant Replay Review 074: Ron Kulpa (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Ron Kulpa's safe call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Red Sox-Yankees game. With one out and one on, Yankees batter Dean Anna hit a 2-2 sinker from Red Sox pitcher Burke Badenhop on a line drive to right field, off the ball, to right fielder Daniel Nava, who threw to shortstop Xander Bogaerts as Anna arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Red Sox Manager John Farrell, Kulpa's ruling that Bogaerts did not tag Anna while Anna was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Yankees were leading, 7-4. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 7-4.

This is Ron Kulpa (46)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Ron Kulpa is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Brian Gorman's crew is now 3/3 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 74th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Red Sox Manager John Farrell is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 50/74 (.676 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees, 4/12/14
Video: Play stands; Replay determines Anna was not tagged while away from second base (NYY)

MLB Instant Replay Review 073: Jerry Layne (03)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Jerry Layne's safe call in the bottom of the 3rd inning of the Cubs-Cardinals game. With two out and one on, Cardinals batter John Jay hit a 1-1 fastball from Cubs pitcher Carlos Villanueva on the ground to shortstop Starlin Castro, who threw to first baseman Anthony Rizzo as Jay arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Layne's ruling that Rizzo did not catch the ball and tag first base prior to Jay's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Cardinals were leading, 4-1. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 10-4.

This is Jerry Layne (24)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Jerry Layne is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 6/9 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 73rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 3/7 (.429 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 49/73 (.671 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 4/12/14
Video: Play overturned; Cubs win a challenge to end the 3rd, take a Cards run off the board (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 072: Gerry Davis (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Gerry Davis' out call in the top of the 1st inning of the Indians-White Sox game. With one out and one on, White Sox pitcher Felipe Paulino attempted to pick off Indians baserunner R1 Nyjer Morgan, throwing to White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu as Morgan's hand arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Indians Manager Terry Francona, Davis' ruling that Abreu tagged Morgan prior to Morgan's return to first base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Indians ultimately won the contest, 12-6.

This is Gerry Davis (12)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gerry Davis is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 4/5 (.800 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 72nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Indians Manager Terry Francona is now 2/5 (.400 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 49/72 (.681 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Chicago White Sox, 4/12/14
Video: Play overturned; Morgan stays at first after Replay reverses Abreu's pickoff put out (CLE)

Friday, April 11, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 071: Gabe Morales (03)

Instant Replay Review upheld HP Umpire Gabe Morales' HBP call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Cubs-Cardinals game. With none out and one on, Cardinals batter Allen Craig took a 0-1 sinker from Cubs pitcher Jose Veras inside and around the area of the upper left arm for a hit by pitch. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Morales' ruling that the pitched ball made contact with Craig was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Cubs were leading, 3-1. The Cubs ultimately won the contest, 6-3, in 11 innings.

This is Gabe Morales (47)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gabe Morales is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 6/8 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 70th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 2/6 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 49/71 (.690 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 4/11/14
Video: Play stands; Cardinals get the tying run on base after hit by pitch stands in the 9th (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 070: Pat Hoberg (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Pat Hoberg's HR (fair ball) call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Athletics-Mariners game. With none out and none on, Mariners batter Kyle Seager hit a 0-1 fastball from A's pitcher Tommy Milone to deep right field and towards the foul pole. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by Crew Chief Tom Hallion, Hoberg's ruling that the ball left the playing field in fair territory was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Mariners were leading, 2-0. The Mariners ultimately won the contest, 6-4.

This is Pat Hoberg (31)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Pat Hoberg is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Tom Hallion's crew is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 70th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 1/8 (.125 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 48/70 (.686 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Seattle Mariners, 4/11/14
Video: Play overturned; New York sees clear evidence that ball hooked foul prior to the pole (SEA)

MLB Instant Replay Review 069: Adrian Johnson (02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Adrian Johnson's Rule 7.13 violation no-call (out) in the top of the 7th inning of the Nationals-Braves game. With two out and two on, Nationals baserunner R2 Adam LaRoche attempted to score on a wild pitch by Braves pitcher Jordan Walden, who received the throw from catcher Evan Gattis as LaRoche slid into home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Nationals Manager Matt Williams and initiation by Crew Chief Larry Vanover, Johnson's ruling that Walden did not violate Rule 7.13 in that he did not illegally block access to home plate while not in possession of the ball was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 5-5. The Braves ultimately won the contest, 7-6, in 10 innings.

This is Adrian Johnson (80)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Adrian Johnson is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Larry Vanover's crew is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 69th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Nationals Manager Matt Williams is now 0/3 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 48/69 (.696 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta Braves, 4/11/14
Video: Play stands; Replay Officials determine Rule 7.13 was not violated on out at home (ATL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 068: DJ Reyburn (03)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire DJ Reyburn's ball (hit-by-pitch non-) call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Rays-Reds game. With none out and none on, Reds batter Brandon Phillips took a 0-1 curveball from Rays pitcher David Price for a called first ball. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Reds Manager Bryan Price, Reyburn's ruling that the ball bounced in the dirt, was fumbled by Rays catcher Jose Molina and did not hit Phillips was affirmed, the call was correct. Phillips went on to strike out for the first out of the inning. At the time of the review, the Rays were leading, 2-0. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 2-1.

This is DJ Reyburn (70)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
DJ Reyburn is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Tim Welke's crew is now 3/3 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 68th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Reds Manager Bryan Price is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 47/68 (.691 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Cincinnati Reds, 4/11/14
Video: Play stands; Review determines that Phillips was not hit by the pitch, confirms the call (CIN)

Thursday, April 10, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 067: Jim Reynolds (02)

Instant Replay Review upheld 2B Umpire Jim Reynolds' out call in the top of the 1st inning of the Diamondbacks-Giants game. With two out and one on, Diamondbacks baserunner R1 Tony Campana attempted to steal second base off Giants pitcher Ryan Vogelsong, catcher Buster Posey to shortstop Brandon Crawford as Campana arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson, Reynolds' ruling that Crawford tagged Campana while Campana was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Diamondbacks ultimately won the contest, 6-5, in 10 innings.

This is Jim Reynolds (77)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Jim Reynolds is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth's crew is now 4/4 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 67th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 46/67 (.687 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants, 4/10/14
Video: Play stands; Visual evidence falls short of clear and convincing standard in the 1st (ARI)

MLB Instant Replay Review 066: Gabe Morales (02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Gabe Morales' out call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Astros-Blue Jays game. With two out and one on, Blue Jays batter Melky Cabrera hit a 1-1 fastball from Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel on the ground to third baseman Matt Dominguez, who, after bobbling and Cabrera's stumbling, threw to first baseman Marc Krauss as Cabrera arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons, Morales' ruling that Krauss caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Cabrera's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Astros were leading, 2-1. The Astros ultimately won the contest, 6-4.

This is Gabe Morales (47)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gabe Morales is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 5/7 (.714 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 66th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Blue Jays Manager John Gibbons is now 0/4 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 45/66 (.682 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Houston Astros vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 4/10/14
Video: Play stands; Gibbons challenges inning-ending out call at first, which is confirmed (TOR)

MLB Instant Replay Review 065: Adam Hamari (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Adam Hamari's Rule 7.13 non-call (out) in the top of the 6th inning of the Athletics-Twins game. With one out and two on, Athletics batter Josh Donaldson hit a 1-2 curveball from Twins pitcher Samuel Deduno on a line drive to center fielder Aaron Hicks, who threw to catcher Josmil Pinto as A's baserunner R2 Jed Lowrie arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by Crew Chief Bill Miller, Hamari's ruling that Deduno did not violate Rule 7.13 in that he did not block home plate prior to tagging Hicks while off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Athletics were leading, 6-1. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 6-1.

This is Adam Hamari (78)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Adam Hamari is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Bill Miller's crew is now 4/4 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 65th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/7 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 44/65 (.677 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Minnesota Twins, 4/10/14
Video: Play stands; Umpires' challenge confirms Twins did not violate the anti-collision rule (MIN)

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 064: Seth Buckminster (02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Seth Buckminster's safe call in the top of the 9th inning of the Angels-Mariners game. With one out and one on, Angels baserunner R1 Kole Calhoun attempted to steal second base off a pickoff throw by Marlins pitcher Charlie Furbush to first baseman Justin Smoak to shortstop Brad Miller as Calhoun arrived at second. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon, Buckminster's ruling that Miller did not tag Calhoun while he was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Angels were leading, 2-0. The Angels ultimately won the contest, 2-0.

This is Seth Buckminster (67)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Seth Buckminster is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 3/6 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 64th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 43/64 (.672 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Seattle Mariners, 4/9/14
Video: Play stands; Challenge denied as replay determines Calhoun slid underneath the tag (SEA)

MLB Instant Replays 062, 063: Carlson, Barry (01, 01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Mark Carlson's out call in the bottom of the 6th and confirmed 2B Umpire Scott Barry's HR call in the top of the 9th inning of the Pirates-Cubs game. In the 6th, with one out and two on, Cubs batter Junior Lake hit a 0-2 slider from Pirates pitcher Jeanmar Gomez on the ground to third baseman Pedro Alvarez, who threw to second baseman Neil Walker to first baseman Travis Ishikawa as Lake arrived at first base, Cubs baserunner R1 Mike Olt out at second. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Carlson's ruling that Ishikawa caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Lake's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Cubs were leading, 6-1.

In the 9th, with one out and none on, Pirates batter Russell Martin hit a 0-0 changeup from Cubs pitcher Pedro Strop on a line drive to deep left center field towards the top of the outfield wall. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Cubs Manager Renteria and initiation by Crew Chief Jeff Nelson, Barry's ruling that the ball left the playing field in flight for a home run was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Cubs were leading, 7-5. The Cubs ultimately won the contest, 7-5.

This is Mark Carlson (6)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Scott Barry (87)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mark Carlson is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Scott Barry is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jeff Nelson's crew is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

These are the 62nd and 63rd Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 2/5 (.400 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 42/63 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs, 4/9/14
Video: Play overturned; Call at first base is reversed after video replay shows erroneous ruling (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 061: Adrian Johnson (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Adrian Johnson's safe call in the bottom of the 1st inning of the Brewers-Phillies game. With none out and one on, Phillies batter Jimmy Rollins hit a 0-1 fastball from Brewers pitcher Matt Garza on the ground back to Garza, who threw to shortstop Jean Segura as Phillies baserunner R1 Ben Revere arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Brewers Manager Ron Roenicke, Johnson's ruling that Segura did not catch the ball and complete the tag on Revere was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Brewers were leading, 2-0. The Brewers ultimately won the contest, 9-4.

This is Adrian Johnson (80)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Adrian Johnson is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Larry Vanover's crew is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 61st Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Brewers Manager Ron Roenicke is now 1/1 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 41/61 (.672 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Milwaukee Brewers vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 4/9/14
Video: Johnson's safe call is reversed after replay conclusively shows the tag (MIL)

MLB Replay Reviews 058-060: Reyburn, Bellino (01|2, 01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire DJ Reyburn's No HR call in the top of the 2nd, upheld Reyburn's HR call in the bottom of the 4th and confirmed HP Umpire Dan Bellino's out call (Rule 7.13 home plate collision non-call) in the top of the 8th inning of the Marlins-Nationals game. In the 2nd, with one out and one on, Marlins batter Derek Dietrich hit a 1-1 changeup from Nationals pitcher Jordan Zimmerman to deep right field and the top of the outfield wall. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Marlins Manager Mike Redmond and initiation by Crew Chief Jeff Kellogg, Reyburn's ruling that the ball struck the top of the wall and remained in play was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Marlins were leading, 4-0.

In the 4th, with one out and two on, Nationals batter Bryce Harper hit a 3-2 fastball from Marlins pitcher Brad Hand to deep right field and past the foul pole. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Marlins Manager Redmond and initiation by Crew Chief Kellogg, Reyburn's ruling that the ball left the playing field in flight and in fair territory was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Marlins were leading, 5-3.

In the 8th, with one out and two on, Marlins batter Garrett Jones hit a 0-1 fastball from Nationals pitcher Tyler Clippard on the ground to right fielder Jayson Werth, who threw to second baseman Anthony Rendon to catcher Jose Lobaton as Marlins baserunner R1 Giancarlo Stanton arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Marlins Manager Redmond and initiation by Crew Chief Kellogg, Bellino's ruling that Lobaton did not violate Rule 7.13 and legally tagged Stanton while Stanton was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Marlins were leading, 7-6. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 10-7.

These are DJ Reyburn (80)'s 1st and 2nd Instant Replay Reviews of 2014.
This is Dan Bellino (2)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
DJ Reyburn is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Dan Bellino is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jeff Kellogg's crew is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

These are the 58th, 59th & 60th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Marlins Manager Mike Redmond is now 1/4 (.250 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 41/60 (.683 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Miami Marlins vs. Washington Nationals, 4/9/14
Video: Play overturned; Marlins receive a home run Reyburn's overturned live ball call (MIA)

MLB Instant Replay Review 057: Jerry Meals (02)

Instant Replay Review affirmed 1B Umpire Jerry Meals' HR (fair) call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Rangers-Red Sox game. With one out and two on, Red Sox batter David Ortiz hit a 1-1 fastball from Rangers pitcher Neal Cotts to deep right field near the foul pole. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Rangers Manager Ron Washington and initiation by crew chief Jerry Meals, Meals' ruling that the fly ball left the playing field in fair territory was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Red Sox were leading, 4-2. The Red Sox ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

This is Jerry Meals (41)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Jerry Meals is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Meals' crew is now 3/5 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 57th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rangers Manager Ron Washington is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 39/57 (.684 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Boston Red Sox, 4/9/14
Video: Play stands; Big Papi keeps his go-ahead three-run jack as New York confirms the home run (BOS)

MLB Instant Replay Review 056: Quinn Wolcott (02)

Instant Replay Review upheld 3B Umpire Quinn Wolcott's out call in the bottom of the 2nd inning of the Rays-Royals game. With one out and two on, Royals batter Mike Moustakas swung at and missed a 3-2 changeup from Rays pitcher Jake Odorizzi as Royals baserunner R2 Alex Gordon attempted to steal third base, Rays catcher Ryan Hanigan to third baseman Evan Longoria as Gordon arrived at third base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Royals Manager Ned Yost, Wolcott's ruling that Longoria tagged Gordon while he was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest, was tied, 0-0. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 7-3.

This is Quinn Wolcott (81)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Quinn Wolcott is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 4/4 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 56th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Royals Manager Ned Yost is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 38/56 (.679 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Kansas City Royals, 4/9/14
Video: Play stands; Wolcott's call is upheld by Replay Officials following a two-minute review (KC)

MLB Instant Replays 054, 055: Gibson, Carapazza (02, 02)

Instant Replay Review upheld 2B Umpire Greg Gibson and confirmed HP Umpire Vic Carapazza's safe calls in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Athletics-Twins game. With one out and three on, Twins batter Eduardo Escobar hit a 1-2 curveball from Athletics pitcher Jim Johnson in the air to left fielder Yoenis Cespedes, who threw to third baseman Trevor Plouffe as Twins baserunner R2 Kurt Suzuki arrived at third base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin, Gibson's ruling that Plouffe did not catch and tag third base prior to Suzuki's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Athletics were leading, 4-3.

During the very next at-bat, Athletics batter Brian Dozier hit a 1-0 sinker from Athletics pitcher Dan Otero in the air to right fielder Josh Reddick, who threw to catcher Derek Norris as Twins baserunner R3 Suzuki arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by Crew Chief Miller, Carapazza's ruling that Norris did not tag Suzuki prior to Suzuki's hand touching home plate was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 4-4. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 7-4, in 11 innings.

This is Greg Gibson (53)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Vic Carapazza (19)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Greg Gibson is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Vic Carapazza is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Bill Miller's crew is now 3/3 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

These are the 54th and 55th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/6 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 37/55 (.673 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Minnesota Twins, 4/9/14
Video: Play stands; Threatening in the 9th, Minnesota keeps its runner at third on Miller's call (MIN)
Video: Play stands; Minnesota ties the game on replayed play at the plate which is confirmed (MIN)

MLB Instant Replay Review 053: Bob Davidson (04)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Bob Davidson's no catch (safe) call in the top of the 1st inning of the Padres-Indians game. With none out and one on, Padres batter Chris Denorfia hit a 0-2 fastball from Indians pitcher Trevor Bauer in the air to right fielder Elliot Johnson, who attempted to catch the fly ball whereupon the ball fell to the ground. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Indians Manager Terry Francona, Davidson's ruling that Johnson did not possess the ball and its release was not voluntary and intentional was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Padres ultimately won the contest, 2-1.

This is Bob Davidson (61)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Bob Davidson is now 3/4 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Bob Davidson's crew is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 53rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Indians Manager Terry Francona is now 1/4 (.250 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 35/53 (.660 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: San Diego Padres vs. Cleveland Indians (Doubleheader Game 2), 4/9/14
Video: Play stands; Umpires quizzed on new catch rule interpretation during fly ball drop play (CLE)

New 2014 Rule Interpretation: Catch/Transfer Explained

"MLB changed the rule interpretation for catch/trap/transfer plays." "The ball must be controlled in the bare hand for a catch to be ruled." "MLB opened up Pandora's box on this interpretation change."

These are some of the UEFL membership's comments after five regular season plus two additional Spring Training catch/no catch calls were challenged and then confirmed via Instant Replay Review. All seven reviews resulted in "no catch" or safe calls.

MLB Replay Review 051: 3B Umpire Seth Buckminster's out call was overturned after Replay Officials determined Angels left fielder Josh Hamilton failed to catch a fly ball.

MLB Replay Review 050: 2B Umpire Phil Cuzzi's safe call was confirmed after Replay Officials agreed that Rays second baseman Ben Zobrist failed to possess and voluntarily release Yunel Escobar's lead throw in his attempt to complete a double play.

MLB Replay Review 046: 2B Umpire Jordan Baker's safe call was upheld after he ruled that Rangers SS Elvis Andrus failed to complete his catching process in a similar manner to Zobrist.

MLB Replay Review 026: 2B Umpire Kerwin Danley's safe call was confirmed by video replay after the analysis determined Tigers 2B Ian Kinsler did not catch his feed, as in Reviews 046 and 050.

MLB Replay Review 012: 2B Umpire Dale Scott's out call was overturned after replay revealed that White Sox center fielder Adam Eaton dropped a fly ball prior to completing his catch.

Spring Training Review S-61: 2B Umpire Lance Barksdale's safe call was confirmed upon challenged replay: White Sox 2B Leury Garcia did not possess the baseball.

Spring Training Review S-20: 2B Umpire Chad Whitson's out call was reversed; Angels 2B Andrew Romine's bobble was not a transfer, but a failed [missed] catch error.

Thankfully, our friends at the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School have stepped in, care of Umpire-Empire, to confirm what we all suspected: Yes, the rule interpretation has changed for 2014.

Rule 2.00 [Catch] provides that, "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 2013, the interpretation for "Legal Catch" held that if the fielder loses the ball after simply stopping the ball's momentum and making an effort to retrieve it with a bare hand, it could be ruled "on the transfer" and a catch.

For 2014, the following material was added:
In determining whether a fielder drops the ball “while in the act of making a throw following the catch” in accordance with Rule 2.00, the umpires will determine whether the fielder obtained possession of a ball in flight but dropped the ball while in the act of making a throw during the momentum of the catch. For example, if the shortstop, in an effort to turn a double play, throws to the second baseman, who drops the ball while in the act of drawing back his arm to make a throw to first base, the second baseman shall be adjudged to have had secure control of the ball and thus the ball shall be adjudged to have been caught by the second baseman. However, it shall not be adjudged to be a catch if, while in the act of making a throw during the momentum of the catch, the fielder loses possession of the ball in the transfer (e.g., flip from the glove) before he secures the ball with his throwing hand.
The Wendelstedt School emphasized the following:
The "flip" itself is not deemed a voluntary release, even though it may be a voluntary action. This is an update you will find in the 2014 Rules and Interpretations Manual. We have removed the exclusive interpretation offered for a number of year providing that it only be an attempted voluntary release. This is no longer the case. The release must be voluntary. Additionally, this interpretation has been merged with a tag of a base as well on the front end of a double play attempt. He must secure the ball in his throwing hand before it will be deemed secure possession was made.
Given these stringent definitions, interpretations and emphases, the five plays above do not qualify for legal catch status because the fielders in each of these plays attempting to make a throw during the "momentum of the catch" and lost possession of the ball in the transfer prior to securing the ball with the throwing hand.

Had this "momentum of the catch" been completed and the ball then lost, the correct ruling would have been a catch and dropped transfer (out). Baseball's "momentum of the catch" throw has been a vital component of the vaunted middle-infielders' double play procedure for quite some time so this new interpretation will require time and patience to get used to; however, the interpretation is clear: Without allowing the momentum of the catch to complete—securing firm possession of the ball in the glove—a fielder who loses possession of the ball prior to securing it in his throwing hand will be adjudged to have dropped the throw, resulting in a no catch safe call.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

MLB Ejection 001: Jeff Nelson (1; Rick Renteria)

HP Umpire Jeff Nelson ejected Chicago Cubs Manager Rick Renteria for arguing a ball two call in the top of the 9th inning of the Pirates-Cubs game. With one out and none on, Pirates batter Jordy Mercer took a 1-2 sinker from Cubs pitcher Jose Veras for a called second ball. Replays indicate the pitch was located thigh high and off the outer edge of home plate (px = 1.107) and that all other pitches during the at-bat were properly officiated (ball one was located in the dirt), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Pirates were leading, 7-6. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 7-6.

This is Jeff Nelson (45)'s first ejection of 2014.
This is Crew Chief Jeff Nelson's first ejection in the UEFL Crew Division.

This is the 1st ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 1st Manager ejection of 2014.
This is the Cubs' first ejection of 2014, 1st in the NL Central (CHC 1; CIN, MIL, PIT, STL 0).
This is Rick Renteria's first ejection since July 17, 2010 (Kerwin Danley; QOC = U).
This is Jeff Nelson's first ejection since September 7, 2013 (Jerry Hairston; QOC = N).

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs, 4/8/14
Video: Renteria earns ejection #1 of 2014 for arguing Nelson's ninth inning strike zone (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 052: Chris Guccione (02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Chris Guccione's out call in the top of the 9th inning of the Tigers-Dodgers game. With two out and one on, Tigers baserunner R1 Victor Martinez attempted to steal second base off Dodgers pitcher Kenley Jansen, catcher Tim Federowicz to second baseman Dee Gordon as Martinez arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus, Guccione's ruling that Gordon tagged Martinez while he was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 2-2. The Dodgers ultimately won the contest, 3-2, in 10 innings

This is Chris Guccione (68)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Chris Guccione is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Tom Hallion's crew is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 52nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 34/52 (.654 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Detroit Tigers vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, 4/8/14
Video: Play stands; Ausmus challenges final call of Tigers' ninth, which is affirmed (DET)

MLB Replay Review 051: Seth Buckminster (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 3B Umpire Seth Buckminster's out call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Angels-Mariners game. With one out and one on, Mariners batter Corey Hart hit a 3-1 fastball from Angels pitcher Michael Kohn to in the air left fielder Josh Hamilton, whereupon the baseball fell to the ground during the catch and transfer motion. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon, Buckminster's ruling that Hamilton caught the ball and dropped it after completing the catch and on the transfer was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Mariners were leading, 4-3. The Mariners ultimately won the contest, 5-3.

This is Seth Buckminster (67)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Seth Buckminster is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 2/5 (.400 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 51st Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 33/51 (.647 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Seattle Mariners, 4/8/14
Video: Play overturned; Catch/drop/transfer principles are tested again on replayed call (SEA)

MLB Instant Replay Review 050: Phil Cuzzi (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Phil Cuzzi's safe call in the bottom of the 3rd inning of the Rays-Royals game. With one out and one on, Royals batter Jarrod Dyson hit a 2-2 slider from Rays pitcher Chris Archer on the ground to shortstop Yunel Escobar, who threw to second baseman Ben Zobrist as Royals baserunner R1 Alcides Escobar arrived at second base and the baseball fell to the ground. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rays Manager Joe Maddon, Cuzzi's ruling that Escobar did not catch or possess the baseball and tag second base ahead of Escobar's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 1-0.

This is Phil Cuzzi (10)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Phil Cuzzi is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 3/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 50th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 33/50 (.660 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Kansas City Royals, 4/8/14
Video: Play stands; Cuzzi's failed transfer: safe call is maintained after replay review (TB)

MLB Instant Replay Review 049: Mark Ripperger (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Mark Ripperger's out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Mets-Braves game. With one out and one on, Mets batter Juan Lagares hit a 1-2 changeup from Braves pitcher Ian Thomas on the ground back to Thomas, who threw to first baseman Freddie Freeman as Lagares arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Mets Manager Terry Collins, Ripperger's ruling that Freeman caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Lagares' touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Mets were leading, 3-0. The Mets ultimately won the contest, 4-0.

This is Mark Ripperger (90)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mark Ripperger is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gary Cederstrom's crew is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 49th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Mets Manager Terry Collins is now 2/2 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 32/49 (.653 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: New York Mets vs. Atlanta Braves, 4/8/14
Video: Play overturned; Clear and convincing evidence reverses Ripperger's out call at first in the 8th (NYM)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Seth Buckminster (67)

Umpire Seth Buckminster made his MLB debut during the Angels-Mariners game April 8 in Seattle. Buckminster joined crew chief Mike Winters' crew, serving as Tuesday's third base umpire alongside 2B Umpire Andy Fletcher, 1B Umpire Winters and home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski.

Photo: George Tuley
Buckminster is on the International League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his third year in Triple-A, having started his Minor League umpiring career in 2006, working the Arizona, Appalachian, South Atlantic, Florida Instructional, California, Arizona Instructional and Texas Leagues before his promotion to AAA. He worked the 2012 Arizona Fall League and was selected to that year's Arizona Fall League Championship Game.

Buckminster resides in Fort Worth, Texas and wears the sleeve uniform number 67. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Buckminster, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 32, ejected Mariners Manager Eric Wedge on March 27 for arguing a ball three call (QOC = Irrecusable).

MLB Instant Replay Review 048: Mike Estabrook (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Mike Estabrook's out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Astros-Blue Jays game. With one out and two on, Astros batter Dexter Fowler hit a 0-1 curveball from Blue Jays pitcher Brett Cecil on the ground back to Cecil, who threw to catcher Dioner Navarro as Astros baserunner R3 L.J. Hoes arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Astros Manager Bo Porter, Estabrook's ruling that Navarro tagged Hoes while Hoes was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Blue Jays were leading, 5-2. The Blue Jays ultimately won the contest, 5-2.

This is Mike Estabrook (83)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mike Estabrook is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 4/6 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.

This is the 48th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Astros Manager Bo Porter is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 32/48 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Houston Astros vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 4/8/14
Video: Play stands; Hoe is confirmed out on play at the plate following Instant Replay Review (TOR)

Michael, Son of John Hirschbeck, Passes Away at 27

MLB Umpire John Hirschbeck's son Michael died of unknown causes, the Associated Press announced Tuesday.

According to Poland, Ohio's NBC-WFMJ, Michael suffered from an inherited neurological condition, a rare brain disease known as adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD).

Hirschbeck, who was scheduled to work the San Diego Padres vs. Cleveland Indians interleague series in Ohio instead flew home to be with his family. MiLB's John Tumpane was called up to fill in for the bereaved Hirschbeck, who now has lost his second child in the past 20 years.

In 1993, Hirschbeck's 8-year-old son John Drew died of ALD.

Said, family friend and United Way President Bob Hannon, "Anytime you lose a child it's devastating, but now John and [wife] Denise have lost two children. I think there's no question there will be a lot of people that will be there for the family and help them get through this."

After missing the entire 2008 season following back surgery, Hirschbeck was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2009, resulting in more time on umpiring's Injured List. He returned to work the 2010 season before the cancer returned ahead of 2012: Hirschbeck announced he was once again cancer-free in August 2012 and returned to baseball in 2013.

His 2014 crew includes Bob Davidson, Brian O'Nora and James Hoye.

Monday, April 7, 2014

Instant Replay Review Statistics 101: Week 1 Sabermetrics

MLB's new Instant Replay Review process is sabermetrics personified: With 47 reviews through 101 games played, we can expect to see over 1,000 more Replay Reviews by Game 162 (or 2430, cumulatively). Such a relatively large data set will, in time, lend itself to extensive strategic analysis not seen with ejections, which often take five full seasons to accumulate to such a sample size. As the numbers and trends begin to form (albeit in a highly preliminary stage), Close Call Sports and the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League provides the following Replay Review Sabermetrics primer. First, some key terms:

Review Affirmation Percentage (RAP): The percent of Replay Reviews in which an umpire's call is confirmed or upheld (stands). For instance, a RAP of .750 for n=4 indicates that three calls were affirmed (confirmed/stands) via Replay Review while the other was reversed (overturned). A higher figure (trending towards 1.000) indicates greater calling accuracy; a lower figure (trending towards .000) indicates a greater real-time call error rate. Also known as QOC (Quality of Correctness).

Replay Percentage of Success (RPS): The percent of Replay Reviews in which a ball club and/or its Manager receives an overturned call that benefits the team. Includes both Crew Chief Reviews (initiated by the umpires) and Manager's Challenges (initiated by the teams). For instance, RPS of .333 for n=3 indicates that two calls were affirmed (confirmed/stands) via Replay Review while the other was reversed (overturned). Alternatively, 1.000 - RAP = RPS.

Manager's Challenge Success Percentage (CSP): A subset of RPS, this statistic considers just those Replay Reviews that were effected as the result of a Manager's Challenge. For both RPS and CSP, a higher number (1.000) indicates greater success in the Replay Review process; a lower figure (.000) indicates less successful outcomes.

With Week 1 of the MLB Regular Season in the books, the UEFL recaps professional baseball's "this time it counts" living experiment with Instant Replay Reviews. Bearing in mind that with n=47, our sample size is relatively small and unreliable, here are the "early returns" numbers:

Key bullet points:
"Teams Most Used" (Made use of Replay Review most often): Yankees & Athletics - 4
"Manager's Challenge Leaders" (Most challenges filed): Rick Renteria, Brad Ausmus, Joe Maddon - 3.
"Most successful Manager" (Manager with highest CSP): Fredi Gonzalez - 1.000 in 2/2.
"Least successful Manager" (Manager with lowest CSP): Melvin, Gibbons & Williams - .000 in 0/2.
"Umpire most questioned" (Ump with most Replay Reviews): Bob Davidson & Dana DeMuth - 3.
"Most accurate umpire" (Umpire with greatest RAP): Jerry Layne & Jim Wolf - 1.000 in 2/2.
"Umpire of greatest overturn %" (Umpire with lowest RAP): Chris Conroy - .000 in 0/2.
"Overall affirmation or QOC percentage" (Overall RAP): .660 (31/47 Affirmed Replay Reviews).
Team Status Pre-Review (Winning or Losing prior to review [Win-Loss-Tied]): 17-18-12.
Team Status Post-Review (Won or Lost the game [Wins-Losses]): 21-26. (Delta: 4-8; WPCT: .333).*
*This .333 winning percentage resembles the mid-.330s Win % associated with post-ejections.

Actual data:

MLB Instant Replay Review 047: Quinn Wolcott (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Quinn Wolcott's out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Rays-Royals game. With two out and none on, Rays batter Will Myers hit a 1-0 change up from Royals pitcher Jason Vargas to second baseman Danny Valencia, who threw to first baseman Eric Hosmer as Myers arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rays Manager Joe Maddon, Wolcott's ruling that Hosmer caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Myers' touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Royals were leading, 4-0. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

This is Quinn Wolcott (81)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Quinn Wolcott is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' 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 47th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is now 2/3 (.667 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 31/47 (.660 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Kansas City Royals, 4/7/14
Video: Play stands; Bang-bang play at first is reviewed and kept as an inning-ending groundout (TB)

MLB Instant Replay Review 046: Jordan Baker (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 2B Umpire Jordan Baker's safe call in the bottom of the 1st inning of the Rangers-Red Sox game. With one out and one on, Red Sox batter David Ortiz hit a 0-0 fastball from Rangers pitcher Tanner Scheppers to second baseman Donnie Murphy, who threw to shortstop Elvis Andrus as Red Sox baserunner R1 Daniel Nava arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rangers Manager Ron Washington, Baker's ruling that Andrus did not catch or possess the ball and legally tag second base prior to Nava's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Red Sox ultimately won the contest, 5-1.

This is Jordan Baker (71)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Jordan Baker is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Meals' crew is now 2/4 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 46th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rangers Manager Ron Washington is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 30/46 (.652 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Boston Red Sox, 4/7/14
Video: Play stands; Rangers are denied request for an out due to transfer call in the first inning (TEX)

MLB Instant Replay Review 045: Vic Carapazza (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Vic Carapazza's foul ball (no HR) call in the top of the 3rd inning of the Athletics-Twins game. With one out and none on, A's batter Jed Lowrie hit a 3-2 changeup from Twins pitcher Kevin Correia to deep right field and past the foul pole. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by A's Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by crew chief Bill Miller, Carapazza's ruling that the ball left the playing field in foul territory (to the right of the foul pole) was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the A's were leading, 2-1. The A's ultimately won the contest, 8-3.

This is Vic Carapazza (19)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Vic Carapazza is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Bill Miller'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 45th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/4 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 29/45 (.644 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Minnesota Twins, 4/7/14
Video: Play stands; Foul ball call remains after a four-minute review of foul pole, shadows (OAK)

Sunday, April 6, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 044: Jim Reynolds (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Jim Reynolds' out call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Mariners-Athletics game. With one out and none on, Athletics batter Sam Fuld hit a 0-1 fastball from Mariners pitcher Erasmo Ramirez on a fly ball to center fielder Abraham Almonte, deflected to shortstop Brad Miller, who threw to first baseman Justim Smoak as Fuld dove back into first base after rounding the bag. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin, Reynolds' ruling that Smoak successfully tagged Fuld while he was off his base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 3-3. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 6-3.

This is Jim Reynolds (77)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Jim Reynolds is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth's crew is now 3/3 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 44th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 0/3 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 28/44 (.636 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Seattle Mariners vs. Oakland Athletics, 4/6/14
Video: Play stands; Fuld's out trying to stretch a single is confirmed after unsuccessful challenge (OAK)

MLB Instant Replay 043: Mike Muchlinski (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Mike Muchlinski's out call in the bottom of the 1st inning of the Diamondbacks-Rockies game. With none out and none on, Rockies batter Charlie Blackmon hit a 1-2 slider from Diamondbacks pitcher Wade Miley on the ground to first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who threw to Miley as Blackmon (and Miley) arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rockies Manager Walt Weiss, Muchlinski's ruling that Miley caught the ball and tagged first base ahead of Blackmon's sliding arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Diamondbacks ultimately won the contest, 5-3.

This is Mike Muchlinski (76)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mike Muchlinski is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 2/4 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Listed Replay Official Crew Chiefs: Larry Vanover, Jeff Kellogg.

This is the 43rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rockies Manager Walt Weiss is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 27/43 (.628 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Colorado Rockies, 4/6/14
Video: Play overturned; Replay overturns first base call out of the gate (COL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 042: CB Bucknor (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire CB Bucknor's out call in the top of the 5th inning of the Phillies-Cubs game. With none out and two on, Phillies batter Chase Utley hit a 1-1 changeup from Cubs pitcher Carlos Villanueva back to Villanueva, to shortstop Starlin Castro, who threw to first baseman Anthony Rizzo as Utley arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Phillies Manager Ryne Sanberg, Bucknor's ruling that Rizzo caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Utley's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Cubs were leading, 4-0. The Cubs ultimately won the contest, 8-3.

This is CB Bucknor (54)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
CB Bucknor is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Dale Scott'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 42nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Phillies Manager Ryne Sandberg is now 0/1 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Challenges/Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 27/42 (.643 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Philadelphia Phillies vs. Chicago Cubs, 4/6/14
Video: Play stands; Bucknor's punch out at first base is confirmed after Phils' challenge (PHI)