tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49177122910928712732024-03-18T15:30:02.193-07:00Close Call Sports & Umpire Ejection Fantasy LeagueClose Call Sports objectively tracks and analyzes close and controversial calls in sport, with great regard for the rules and spirit of the game. Developed from The Left Field Corner's MLB Umpire Ejection Fantasy League (UEFL), baseball's number one source for umpire ejections, video instant replay reviews and their corresponding calls, with great regard for the rules and spirit of the game.Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.comBlogger5497125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-35771746525760803802024-03-18T15:12:00.000-07:002024-03-18T15:29:28.437-07:00Bat Flip Ejections - How Not to Be Ejected for Flipping?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/03/bat-flip-ejections-how-to-not-be.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="1091" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCJsvkJTC54ZZCxWmy9SKGo7tjShvWWvCyGH3RGd5wedFXEFXlheXhxBTCHGRjwc5jlmp8iiz4vkzRJgZDf7bTCQurb3J_ytWMWEfAl5s36NyeMYjlvdPuTXMg2Y-A1_LB9jU_DeQ79tBHYj1Hv8c_1x9TvZ5AYs9vHhHwoqLVkp2-eHObEbpHyprorw/s320/Untitled_2.png" width="320" /></a></div>After umpires ejected UConn's Matt Malcolm and Penn State's Kyle Hannon, both for bat flips after hitting a home run, you asked us how a college player can avoid ejection for celebrating a big hit, and why bat flips have seemingly been deemed illegal by NCAA Baseball. Perhaps of equal importance is to consider <i>why</i> college baseball adopted the bat flip ejection rule in the first place.<div><br /></div><div><div>Prior to the 2023 season, NCAA adopted rule 5-17: Unsportsmanlike Conduct, which states</div><div><blockquote><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">Game personnel shall not use language that will, in any manner, refer to or reflect negatively upon opposing players, coaches, umpires or spectators. Any orchestrated activities by any player or dugout personnel designed to distract, intimidate or disconcert the opposing team or reflect poor sportsmanship shall not be allowed. This includes activities such as:</span></blockquote></div><div><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;"></span></div><blockquote><div><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">> Negative comments directed at an opponent, umpire or spectator.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">> Bench jockeying.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">> Bat flips near or toward an opponent or umpire.</span></div><div><span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">> Use of props or signs directed at an opponent or umpiring decision.</span></div></blockquote><div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;"></span></span></div><div>The instruction to umpires appears to be one of strict scrutiny: interpret most bat flips as qualifying under this new sportsmanship rule 5-17. After all, an opponent (including the opposing dugout) or umpire is bound to be <i>near</i> a bat flipping player.</div><div><br /></div><div>During a college baseball playoff game in 2016, a Miami player flipped his bat after a grand slam, resulting in a benches-clearing incident when defensive team Boston College responded with objection. Eight years later, the NCAA rules committee stepped in to address the bat flip issue, effectively finding that its member schools had been unable to address the problem on their own, requiring a sportsmanship intervention.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>*An earlier version of this article's title contained the phrase, "How to not be ejected for flipping?" The author sincerely apologizes for exposing the reader to this reckless split infinitive. This careless error has been corrected.</i></div>
<div><br />Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OD3gopWPwy4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/OD3gopWPwy4" target="_blank">Runner Gomes steps in front of fielding Adames, but ump no-calls the play</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-91272894553971949622024-03-16T14:23:00.000-07:002024-03-16T14:30:57.532-07:002024 MLB Umpire Crew List & Roster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/03/2024-mlb-umpire-crews.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="1920" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKAaawyTn6HElrqiI1RmzpXe_HNSDgikeIxS7zjn40XSaZWyaOYkEGlltPjnCsAoWyz2j6tmovc1Hw7pPVjL-rWk2IayDQW6km0xykROnmLolyHTLxbj4AMWECF2MhElQqQav9biDtE4La41pcYnmrneqOEp-ThslRtWLUoifIkBVIXsckf8lsZntclw/s320/2024crews.png" width="320" /></a></div>MLB quietly posted its 2024 umpire crew list on its website, albeit marked "CONFIDENTIAL"... though the crews are posted publicly via Official Information => Umpires = > Crews. In any case, crew chief Jerry Layne returns as baseball's most experienced umpire in the major leagues, with a new crew for recently-promoted chief Chris Guccione and new-hires Clint Vondrak and Ryan Wills slotted into the mix. Here are the 2024 crews:<br /><h3><b>2024 MLB Umpire Crews</b></h3><style type="text/css">
.tg {border-collapse:collapse;border-color:#C44D58;border-spacing:0;}
.tg td{background-color:#F9CDAD;border-color:#C44D58;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;color:#002b36;
font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;overflow:hidden;padding:1px 1px;word-break:normal;}
.tg th{background-color:#FE4365;border-color:#C44D58;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;color:#fdf6e3;
font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:1px 1px;word-break:normal;}
.tg .tg-c3ow{border-color:inherit;text-align:center;vertical-align:top}
.tg .tg-7btt{border-color:inherit;font-weight:bold;text-align:center;vertical-align:top}
</style><table class="tg" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-spacing: 0px;"><thead><tr><th style="background-color: #fe4365; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #fdf6e3; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">#</th><th style="background-color: #fe4365; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #fdf6e3; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">Crew Chief</th><th style="background-color: #fe4365; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #fdf6e3; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">Umpire 2</th><th style="background-color: #fe4365; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #fdf6e3; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">Umpire 3</th><th style="background-color: #fe4365; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #fdf6e3; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: left; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">Umpire 4</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">A</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">50 Emmel, Paul</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">49 Fletcher, Andy</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">76 Muchlinski, Mike</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">52 Visconti, Jansen</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">B</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">2 Bellino, Dan</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">10 Cuzzi, Phil</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">11 Randazzo, Tony</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">66 Tosi, Alex</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">C</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">26 Miller, Bill</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">88 Eddings, Doug</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">62 Whitson, Chad</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">44 Moore, Malachi</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">D</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">64 Porter, Alan</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">28 Wolf, Jim</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">36 Blakney, Ryan</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">29 Barber, Sean</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">E</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">13 Tichenor, Todd</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">89 Blaser, Cory</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">79 Gonzalez, Manny</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">33 Ceja, Nestor</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">F</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">80 Johnson, Adrian</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">81 Wolcott, Quinn</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">18 De Jesus, Ramon</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">25 Valentine, Junior</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">G</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">72 Marquez, Alfonso</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">16 Barrett, Lance</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">90 Ripperger, Mark</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">40 Ortiz, Roberto</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">H</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">63 Diaz, Laz</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">73 Gibson, Tripp</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">83 Estabrook, Mike</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">12 Bacchus, Erich</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">I</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">51 Hudson, Marvin</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">21 Wendelstedt, Hunter</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">74 Tumpane, John</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">48 Mahrley, Nick</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">J</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">14 Wegner, Mark</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">1 Dreckman, Bruce</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">35 Rehak, Jeremie</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">15 Vondrak, Clint</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">K</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">46 Kulpa, Ron</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">4 Fairchild, Chad</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">37 Torres, Carlos</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">20 Wills, Ryan</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">L</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">24 Layne, Jerry</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">19 Carapazza, Vic</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">78 Hamari, Adam</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">32 Moscoso, Edwin</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">M</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">27 Vanover, Larry</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">86 Rackley, David</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">96 Segal, Chris</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;"><i>TBD*</i></td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">N</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">98 Conroy, Chris</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">7 O'Nora, Brian</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">31 Hoberg, Pat</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">55 Miller, Brennan</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">O</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">58 Iassogna, Dan</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">54 Bucknor, CB</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">97 May, Ben</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">38 Beck, Adam</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">P</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">6 Carlson, Mark</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">71 Baker, Jordan</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">85 Scheurwater, Stu</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;"><i>TBD*</i></td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">Q</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">23 Barksdale, Lance</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">5 Hernandez, Angel</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">93 Little, Will</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">59 Lentz, Nic</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">R</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">92 Hoye, James</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">8 Drake, Rob</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">17 Reyburn, DJ</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">84 Libka, John</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">S</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">68 Guccione, Chris</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">91 Knight, Brian</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">47 Morales, Gabe</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: rgb(196, 77, 88); border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">67 Additon, Ryan</td></tr><tr><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">U</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;"><i>Unassigned: </i></td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">87 Barry, Scott</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;">43 Livensparger, Shane</td><td style="background-color: #f9cdad; border-color: inherit; border-style: solid; border-width: 1px; color: #002b36; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; overflow: hidden; padding: 10px 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; word-break: normal;"><i>CloseCallSports.com</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><i>Transactions</i>:<div>Crew A (Emmel) added Fletcher for Fairchild, Muchlinski for Lentz, and Visconti for Rehak.<br /><div>Crew B (Bellino) added Randazzo for Ripperger and Tosi for Livensparger (unassigned).<br /><div>Crew C (Miller) added Eddings for Drake and Moore for Ortiz.</div><div>Crew D (Porter) added Blakney for Muchlinski. Blakney is now a #3.</div><div>Crew E (Tichenor) added Blaser for Knight, Gonzalez for Randazzo, and Ceja for Tosi.</div><div>Crew F (Johnson) added De Jesus for Gonzalez. Wolcott is now a #2. De Jesus is now a #3.</div><div>Crew G (Marquez) added Barrett for Eddings. Barrett is now a #2.</div><div>Crew H (Diaz) added Gibson for Fletcher. Gibson is now a #2.<br /></div><div>Crew I (Hudson) added Mahrley for Blakney.</div><div>Crew J (Wegner) added Vondrak (new-hire) for Scheurwater. Rehak is now a #3.</div><div>Crew K (Kulpa) added Fairchild and Wills (new-hire) for Blaser and Visconti.</div><div>Crew L (Layne) added Moscoso for Mahrley.<br /><div>Crew M (Vanover) added Segal (from Nelson) for Guccione (new crew chief). Rackley is now a #2.</div><div>Crew N Conroy added Miller, Br for Ceja.</div><div>Crew O (Iassogna) added Bucknor and May (from Nelson), for Barry (unassigned) and Morales. </div><div>Crew P (Carlson) added Scheurwater for Gibson and <i>TBD </i>for Br Miller.</div><div>Crew Q (Barksdale) added Hernandez for Hickox (retired) and Lentz for Additon.</div><div>Crew R (Hoye) added Drake for Hernandez.</div><div><div>Crew S (Guccione) replaced 2023 Crew B (Nelson; retired) and has four different umpires.</div><div>Unassigned umpires are Barry and Livensparger. Crews M & P have TBD slots.</div><div><br /></div><div>Supervisor Jim Reynolds oversees Crews A (Emmel), F (Johnson), N (Conroy), and P (Carlson).</div><div>Supervisor Larry Young oversees Crews B (Bellino), D (Porter), and J (Wegner).</div><div>Supervisor Mike Everitt oversees Crews C (Miller), G (Marquez), H (Diaz), and Q (Barksdale).</div><div>Supervisor Charlie Reliford oversees Crews E (Tichenor), L (Layne), and S (Guccione).</div><div>Supervisor Jeff Kellogg oversees Crews I (Hudson), O (Iassogna), and R (Hoye).<br />
<br />Video as follows:<br />
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://youtu.be/ZT3BZeuAM9I" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/ZT3BZeuAM9I" target="_blank">2024 MLB Umpire Crews are not so CONFIDENTIAL anymore</a></div></div></div></div></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-26658332470956358192024-03-13T13:57:00.000-07:002024-03-13T14:07:21.634-07:00Did Gomes Interfere with Adames in Brewers-Cubs ST?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/03/did-umpires-miss-interference-in.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1222" data-original-width="2178" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AWaOQw8yBxD8pSA3nGaPwH62J2rUseBMlhzip5kjb_iPj9IHsAhA7ETe_D_tKgNRRetEHnQQDzmgCFb11prnNXeUetwct28_6W9_IrXjjEgrGa_INA0Ofz5MsJR7SHccO9xirQRMQZqXCJtkMniE5pf3dpB75ix38XIiw01zpGNuqKX_xexevx5sYQE/s320/interference-gomes.png" width="320" /></a></div>When Cubs baserunner R2 Yan Gomes stood in Brewers shortstop Willy Adames' way during a ground ball in the 5th inning of Tuesday's Milwaukee-Chicago game, 2B Umpire Bruce Dreckman ruled no interference had occurred. You've asked us to review the play to see if a call could have been made and our answer is 'yes'—in two different ways.<div><br /></div><div>By now, you should be familiar with our right-of-way axiom: a fielder has the right to field a batted ball while the runner has primary right of way <i>at any other time</i> (other than a batted ball). Official Baseball Rule 5.09(b)(3) puts a runner out for interference when "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">they intentionally interfere with a thrown ball; or hinder a fielder attempting to make a play on a batted ball.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>OBR 6.01(a)(10) reinforces this: "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">It is interference by a batter or runner when they fail to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball</span></span>..." The intent requirement on the runner's part only applies to interference with a thrown ball or fielder attempting a throw (remember the runner has primary right of way on non-batted ball situations, so to get interference on a throw requires actual intent to commit wrongdoing), but intent is irrelevant for a batted ball situation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Accordingly, if your judgment deems the fielder was hindered or impeded from fielding batter Mike Tauchman's batted ball due to the actions of baserunner R2 Gomes, then Gomes is guilty of interference.</div><div><br /></div><div>The second way to get this call is in OBR 6.01(a)(11), which puts a batter or runner out when "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">a fair ball touches them before touching a fielder. If a fair ball goes through, or by, an infielder [not including the pitcher], and touches a runner immediately back of them, or touches the runner after having been deflected by a fielder [including the pitcher], the umpire shall not declare the runner out for being touched by a batted ball.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>On this play, the pitcher did not touch the ball nor did it pass any non-pitcher infielder prior to contacting runner R2 Gomes, so OBR 6.01(a)(11) would apply and put R2 out for the touched-by-a-batted-ball brand of interference.</div><div><br /></div><div>One final question pertains to whether R2 Gomes was "protected" by having a foot in contact with his base at the time he was touched by the batted ball. Leaving the issue of timing aside (e.g., was he <i>really</i> touching 2B or did the ball touch him before he got back), the rules answer here is found in the MLB Umpire Manual which states, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The fact that the runner had contact with the base when struck with the batted ball has no bearing on the play. (An exception to this is when the runner is hit by an Infield Fly while on base)</span></span>."</div><div><br /></div><div>A ground ball is not an Infield Fly, so the exemption here does not apply and R2 Goes, thus, is not protected from interference simply because he is in contact with a base.<br />
<br />Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L6ksdo1iVw0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/L6ksdo1iVw0" target="_blank">Runner Gomes steps in front of fielding Adames, but ump no-calls the play</a>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-87870643117855610982024-03-08T23:55:00.000-08:002024-03-09T11:36:49.556-08:00Spring Ejections 1-2 - Angel Hernandez (Lynn, Marmol)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/03/spring-ejections-1-2-angel-hernandez.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1218" data-original-width="2168" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWXVYSjrQdVyuKeGkCghHnTQ40FlHrOw1xTlSfV79Sxu0fafkOaEcjFZmD0Wdx4FIjJ-nnFPluxWQyY8e5v-qZ0UEBL4ClHrwr-v6Lzptnv_OylpE6VZu-CmJfNE6SjZ8Vm923YPkE8rQYmTDiWDYXFBoSvuG7h1tRpW2zRfS4TpUjh0xKMbRqm-og-g/s320/angel-springej.png" width="320" /></a></div>HP Umpire Angel Hernandez ejected Cardinals pitcher Lance Lynn and manager Oliver Marmol (arguing balls/strikes) in the bottom of the 3rd inning of a #Cardinals-#Nationals Spring Training game. With one out and none on, Hernandez warned the St Louis dugout about arguing balls and strikes. Lynn was ejected after objecting to a ball call on a subsequent pitch; Marmol for arguing Lynn's ejection. This game was not televised and its stadium not equipped with pitch tracking data, the call was irrecusable. At the time of the ejections, the Cardinals were leading, 5-4. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 7-6.<div><br /><div>These are Angel Hernandez (5)'s 1st and 2nd ejections of Spring Training.</div><div>*OBR 6.04(d) states, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">When a manager, player, coach or trainer is ejected from a game, they shall leave the field immediately and take no further part in that game. They shall remain in the clubhouse or change to street clothes and either leave the park or take a seat in the grandstand well removed from the vicinity of their team’s bench or bullpen.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div><div>These are the 1st and 2nd ejection reports of 2024 MLB Spring Training.</div><div>This is the 1st player ejection of Spring 2024. Prior to ejection, Lynn's line was 2.0 IP, 4 ER.</div><div>This is the 1st manager ejection of Spring 2024. <i>Ejection Tally: 1 Manager, 1 Player, 0 Coaches</i>.</div><div>This is St Louis' 1-2nd ejection of S-2024, 1st in the Grapefruit League (<b>STL 2</b>; All Others 0).</div><div>This is Lance Lynn's 1st ejection since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2021/08/mlb-ejection-136-nic-lentz-3-lance-lynn.html" target="_blank">August 18, 2021 (Nic Lentz; QOC = U [Illegal Substance-USC])</a>.</div><div>This is Oliver Marmol's 1st ejection since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/08/mlb-ejections-204-6-brennan-miller-4-6.html" target="_blank">August 22, 2023 (Brennan Miller; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes])</a>.</div><div>This is Angel Hernandez's 1st ejection since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/09/mlb-ejection-237-angel-hernandez-1.html" target="_blank">Sept 28, 2023 (Bryce Harper; QOC = U [Check Swing])</a>.</div><div><br />Wrap: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/cardinals-vs-nationals/2024/03/08/748065/final/box" target="_blank">St Louis Cardinals vs Washington Nationals (Spring Training), 3/8/23</a> | Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Kr5A-EeqANQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Kr5A-EeqANQ" target="_blank">Ronald Acuña's 1st inning HBP leads to bench clearing; Snit ejected over later HBP</a></div></div></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-75766925503582685452024-03-07T15:28:00.000-08:002024-03-07T15:46:10.235-08:00New Obstruction Emphasis Called for 1st Time in Spring Training<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/03/new-obstruction-emphasis-called-for-1st.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="2222" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jAnc59AcM5WJ_iuxTi-wkJqriWeGmL9likRiG_XVSGVnycw1qa7aRJpl1D5BODsj2sPAsCVxLeOrj7vxvWpGx-o5Gvae3QIppuGVMKlv48f9YZxMU4SibymHpKQ_vtC5_JQ4-WOGnh7DyNsYPk5kJskhexUN5ObSfCZE4JoYsI84gwBsbBDkd85nQDs/s320/obspr.png" width="320" /></a></div><div>2024's new obstruction rule point of emphasis got its first call of Spring Training as 3B Umpire Nick Mahrley called Angels third baseman Luis Rengifo for illegally blocking Cubs baserunner Chrisopher Morel's return slide into third base before Rengifo fielded pitcher Reid Detmers' throw. The ensuing base award enabled Morel to score Chicago's first run of the afternoon, despite Morel having been obstructed while sliding back into third base and not trying for home.</div><div><br /></div>As <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/obstruction-calls-are-2024s-point-of.html" target="_blank">announced</a> in February, MLB's obstruction point of emphasis instructs umpires to call violations of Official Baseball Rule 6.01(h)(1) when a fielder blocks the runner's base path without possession of the ball, or if fielding the ball (without possessing it), blocks the runner's path unnecessarily (e.g., the fielder did not need to occupy that space to receive the throw.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/obstruction-calls-are-2024s-point-of.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1154" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZoIKLyVy3OxOx0VjTvmPKOqY9CdNPhZex-UMW1KoAB-M2MdlRR_Qf6Ozd3Qt-0V6Cul22eeaMPvRhDgACvuyplU28L07rOELx5wkgvsEA0XQB-ofMwds4aUkUpkalHz_nbZfJFQyVmJP5g0zR_1vFzi78q7ageHRFRyH3RGug7ROmQGJ09D3f5glfQc/s320/obstruction-poe.png" width="320" /></a></div>This allows the definition and rule to remain unchanged: "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Obstruction is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress of any runner,</span></span>" while deeming that a violation of OBR 6.01(h)(1) has occurred if the fielder, for instance, sticks a knee into the runner's path without the ball, or performs some other impeding action that isn't strictly necessary to field a thrown ball.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, OBR 6.01(h)(1) states, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">The obstructed runner shall be awarded at least one base beyond the base they had last legally touched before the obstruction</span></span>," which is why baserunner R3 Morel, having reached third on the prior play, was awarded home plate. Note that this mandatory base award applies only to Obstruction Type 1 (Type A) and only to the obstructed runner. When no play is being made on an obstructed runner at the time of obstruction (Obstruction 2 / B), the base awards are made to "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">nullify the act of obstruction</span></span>."</div><div><br /></div><div>The scoring on this is an error charged to the fielder.</div><div><br /></div><div>Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EsrtI4Oilj8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/EsrtI4Oilj8" target="_blank">Cubs score when 2024's Obstruction POE makes first appearance in Spring Training</a>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-7589182260255223472024-02-29T13:42:00.000-08:002024-02-29T22:35:30.901-08:00Swimmer Disqualified for Celebrating? Spirit of the Rule<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/swimmer-disqualified-for-celebrating.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="1148" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49BZAHax1zchlTd7u8Rqk-8Fz8IxSd4HZeL9HUQmfD8Ilw-t-TNk3DRqRS4HMN1M49cVEZ-mcnJHmI_axttDBf1wmMc9vImMf7FJxoXEftBGxISGqpti60ZrzrLPZUz6fUlbX5xmxux3tB_z36wKyb7pqU4z0MmnhENXan8LE74xYymjqgAHcDpU7FpU/s320/swim-dq.png" width="320" /></a></div>NC State swimmer Kenneth "Owen" Lloyd finished first in his Men's 1650-yard freestyle Final in record time and climbed into teammate Ross Dant's lane to celebrate. After the race, however, referees announced Lloyd had been disqualified for switching lanes prior to the heat's end in violation of NCAA Swimming's interference rule. Let's talk spirit of the rule vs technical letter of the law.<div><br /></div><div>NCAA Swimming & Diving Rule 2-5-1-b, a section called FOULS with the article titled INTERFERENCE, states, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">A swimmer who changes lanes during a heat shall be disqualified.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>There it is, black and white. A heat, event, or race effectively ends when the final competitor touches the wall to stop the clock. Replays indicate that Lloyd finished so quickly that other racers were still swimming—in the opposite direction—when Lloyd and opponent-but-also-teammate Dant touched up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lloyd then climbed atop the lane divider between himself and Dant's lane before dropping into his teammate's lane to celebrate a dominant victory.</div><div><br /></div><div>Upon the race's conclusion, referees met (they are allowed to use video review) and determined that Lloyd was to be disqualified for changing lanes <i>during</i> the heat—e.g., while opponents were still swimming.</div><div><br /></div><div>It didn't matter that Lloyd didn't appear to actually <i>interfere</i> with anyone (Dant had already finished when Lloyd breached the lane)—he was DQ'd based on the strict technicality of the interference rule.</div><div><br /></div><div>This brings us to spirit vs letter of the rule—should this rulebook-supported decision been withheld due to Lloyd's obvious victory...or are the rules letter-tight for a reason in all situations?</div><div><br /></div><div>Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cu79mxgYTk4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/cu79mxgYTk4" target="_blank">Referee decision disqualifies college swimmer from Final for celebrating too early</a>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-86365789927148540142024-02-26T14:51:00.000-08:002024-02-26T14:51:31.460-08:00College Player Ejected for Bat Flip - Unraveling Nebraska vs Grand Canyon U<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/college-player-ejected-for-bat-flip.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="1018" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9oaz9j8Fo48IAn_SDdZffw2D1WQXvcrLodUshaZZqRYTiC5xAcxfTFQwUQLcoatUVMvxU5KjuoEAvXg1WzFVoop962iiP3VUyDRn35O-0tz0dB8b8wGL7C3p2Cvi0Lc3HzxydOgbkjP64vrvM_kxu4TnieANaRPeZE0-8R0ciNJH30S2AOYbqlzyhjlY/s320/batflipej.png" width="320" /></a></div>Grand Canyon University batter Tyler Wilson hit a grand slam to tie the Nebraska-GCU game, but was ejected by the HP Umpire during his home run trot for a bat flip near first base. What are college baseball's sportsmanship rules and was an ejection all over flipping a bat during a big moment in a game necessary?<div><br /></div><div>We begin the night before Sunday's game in question, with both Nebraska and GCU trading celebrations after executing plays that benefited their respective teams. On their own, these celebrations are, effectively, unremarkable—players <i>are allowed to celebrate</i> success on the field.</div><div><br /></div><div>The issue came to a head, however, in the 7th inning, with GCU pitcher Nathan Ward's exuberant celebration after a check swing strikeout to end Nebraska's top half. That attracted the attention not just of Nebraska, but the plate umpire who ordered Ward back to the dugout. Nebraska's head coach was seen speaking with umpires during the inning break.</div><div><br /></div><div>After the game, the two teams met in the outfield and exchange unsporting words, indicating held over resentment, all leading to Sunday's game when Wilson hit his game-tying grand slam and flipped his bat, having held onto it until passing the halfway point down the first baseline.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for why umpires ejected Wilson for his bat flip, we refer to the NCAA Baseball rulebook.<br /><div><br /></div><div>In addition to the Coaching/Players' Code of Ethics prohibiting unsportmanlike behavior, NCAA 5-17, newly amended for 2023-24, prohibits actions that "reflect poor sportsmanship," specifically including, "<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Bat flips near or toward an opponent or umpire.</span></span>" The penalty in college is a warning after the first offense and an ejection for any further unsportsmanlike conduct after the warning.</div><div><br /></div><div>NCAA 3-6-b obliges umpires to enforce these rules: "<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="color: #20124d;">[Each umpire] is obliged to conduct the game under conditions conducive to the highest standards of good sportsmanship.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>The Official Baseball Rule (professional/MLB/MiLB) version of the sportsmanship rule is OBR 6.04, with ejections mandated by umpires' rule OBR 8.01(d).</div><div><br /></div><div>NFHS 3-3-1f prohibits "<span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #20124d;">any unsportsmanlike act</span></span>" including taunting (3-3-1c: "<span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #20124d;">carelessly throw a bat</span></span>") while high school rule 10-1-6 authorizes umpires to eject for these violations.</div><div><div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ut7P0iRplDY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Ut7P0iRplDY" target="_blank">Umpires eject grand slam hitter for unsportsmanlike conduct via a bat flip</a></div></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-55366004505187348842024-02-22T15:32:00.000-08:002024-02-22T18:08:30.561-08:00Tagged Runner Returns to 1B - Placing the Ole Miss Call<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/tagged-runner-returns-to-1b-placing-ole.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="1022" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEozOZcq61O4bmEoDN54zXW5yBH2FbBGlhaE_xdv_o2msM4_1EUuLJolGEee1j7_VWh5iB-ffpuaw1HftKSzpsecZHbP_Mgly5HfLy-z7Ga0dWcxsIjZ7vZGcI2olVu-SpTqsdYtiUokS1fzln_2mSJ-zgUdMR8u3kCpqSmRHo7MEeWFi1YYxulDgIUP8/s320/runner-miss.png" width="320" /></a></div>With none out and a runner on first in the bottom of the 12th inning of Hawaii's home game against Ole Miss, Rainbow Warriors batter Matthew Miura flied out to right field as baserunner R1 Ben Zeigler-Namoa jogged into second base, with Rebels fielders both tagging R1 and appealing his failure to tag up at first base. Upon video review, Miura was returned—safely—to first base with batter-runner Miura out. Why?<div><br /></div><div>Succinctly, replays indicate that as R1 held between first and second base and Ole Miss RF Treyson Hughes ranged over to catch the batted ball, the first base umpire, having run into the outfield to officiate the fly ball, signaled "safe" as in "no catch". Thus when R1 cruised into second base and stayed there, only to be tagged and appealed-on, Namoa responded by pointing to the umpire and indicating the erroneous "safe" mechanic.</div><div><br /></div><div>NCAA/college's rulebook holds two outcomes for getting the call right in Appendix E—one for crew consultations without video review, and one for video review calls.</div><div><br /></div><div>Both scenarios play out similarly in terms of correcting an erroneous initial call: "<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="color: #20124d;">If the reversing of a call results in the need for decisions on the placement of base runners, the umpire crew shall use their best judgment to determine their locations as if the call had been made correctly.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>OBR 8.02(c) is similar: "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">If the umpires consult after a play and change a call that had been made, then they have the authority to take all steps that they may deem necessary, in their discretion, to eliminate the results and consequences of the earlier call that they are reversing, including placing runners where they think those runners would have been after the play</span></span>," while NFHS 10-2-l/high school grants umpires-in-chief the authority to "<span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #20124d;">rectify any situation in which an umpire's decision that was reversed has placed either team at a disadvantage</span></span>."</div><div><br /></div><div>The general principle here is that no player shall be placed in jeopardy because they relied on an umpire's incorrect initial call. Accordingly, R1 was returned to first base and the batter declared out, the crew deeming via review that had U1 called the batter out initially, R1 would have most likely returned to first base safely.</div><div><br /></div><div>As a footnote, what may have contributed to U1's error was the right fielder's glove, which was white or grey in color, similar to the baseball's hue. Although NCAA rules do not restrict non-pitcher fielders in their glove color, OBR 3.07(a) states that "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">no fielder regardless of position may use a fielding glove that falls within a PANTONE color set lighter than the current 14-series</span></span>." This applies to most white and grey colored gloves and, had this occurred during a professional game, would likely apply here as well.<br /><div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ia0oA4KuktY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Ia0oA4KuktY" target="_blank">1B Umpire's erroneous safe signal leads to review and reversed call, runner placement</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-77778240615623264992024-02-19T18:32:00.000-08:002024-02-19T19:59:49.845-08:00Rain Ejections After Umpires Order Softball Team to Play Through Downpour; Pitcher Can't Find a Grip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/rain-ejections-after-umpires-order.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="610" data-original-width="1094" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTfruWRFDUqvU1Wl-zkg5nOatGfVZb0FUxdUs-iBmC3V6hG0NVcNc1fY-MsA6i1KazMzD9qV-I6wqMuIB8-tvl8mWdqA4oq5gXmccCvyDIz8bWfwKQrKlvIAWxvN-yntNb4XTdhCvqfkf06Fy6XOeXggXcSG9Gfd5l0PCNJIPD3FbjMiljHzsx3nXbCc/s320/rain-delay-ej.png" width="320" /></a></div>A wild argument after umpires refused to call for a rain delay, instead ordering Cal softball to play through a downpour in Louisiana, resulted in multiple ejections when Cal's pitcher couldn't find a grip in the slippery conditions. What's the rule about rain delays and could anything have avoided this flashpoint?<div><br /></div><div>The controversy started when multiple California Bears players knelt in protest during the pre-game National Anthem, prompting heckling from the home crowd and charged emotions before a pitch was even thrown (Friday).</div><div><br /></div><div>Potential problems continued to brew Sunday as clouds ominously turned grey during a 7th inning Replay Review for a hit-by-pitch vs foul ball play, with the home plate umpire and Cal head coach taking turns exhibiting curt body language cues with each other, indicating the duo might not get along too well if controversy were to occur later on.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rain ultimately picked up significantly and despite Cal's pitcher appearing wholly unable to get a grip on the softball, and despite her head coach's plea to temporarily stop playing, the umpires opted to continue playing, leading to back-to-back Cal wild pitches allowing Louisiana to tie the game and igniting a near-free for all ending with multiple Cal ejections.</div><div><br /></div><div>NCAA Softball's Rule 6.11.2.1.2 pertains to suspension and the resumption of play and states, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Play should be suspended immediately without regard to timing within the inning when spectator or participant safety is compromised (for example, in the event of lightning detected within the danger zone, serious injury to a participant or if players’ footing or grip on the bat or ball is obviously compromised).</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>The phrase "obviously compromised" proved controversial to coach and umpire who were already operating on different wavelengths, but it is tough to argue the pitcher's repeated inability to grip the ball in the heavier rain would <i>not</i> meet this threshold.</div><div><br /></div><div>Instead, play continued until back-to-back wild pitches due to poor grip helped tie the game and ignite the multiple ejections. The multiple ejections that followed delayed the game by several minutes, allowing the heavier problematic rain to pass through the area before play resumed. In other words, when it comes to an issue of delaying the game, an umpire's attempt at getting in the final word to play through can be circumvented by team personnel who can call for their own delay simply by wasting time arguing the rain delay no-call.</div><div><br /></div><div>With Cal's pitcher once again able to grip the baseball in less-downpourish conditions, the Bears recorded the third out and ultimately won the contest in extra innings.</div><div>
<br /><div>Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7M0CCkFFwzk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/7M0CCkFFwzk" target="_blank">Umpires refuse to call rain delay, resulting in ejections that delay the game anyway</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-81728760001832519192024-02-18T15:09:00.000-08:002024-02-18T15:10:09.672-08:00Batter-Runner Interference at UCF? A College Question<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/batter-runner-interference-at-ucf.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="1148" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZWre_Fc8KzNzpInu6L1H82y3QKdrmbWob84jI6dR_lgzxoLpgtQ4kAbDze6Pv2Y4b4PbgHAR7aeJN5gUYo-v1f_Kbf5jXY1VJ8mRQxQyDGHIXb0zQTOjbX9KDLDqWoyAxsko200-ONg5lWqC-1AUocpLU7d-d0NNpXBge4LpGahNk_ynFVGRDrhiJYlA/s320/int-not.png" width="320" /></a></div>A batter-runner ran into a catcher attempting to throw out a baserunner during Friday's Bryant vs UCF game, a no-call ruled legal by HP Umpire Daniel Jimenez who deemed UCF batter Mikey Kluska did not interfere with Bryant catcher Jackson Phinney during a bunt attempt.<div><br /></div><div>With a runner on first and none out in the 7th inning of a close 11-10 game, Kluska dropped down a bunt on the first pitch he saw, presumably a sacrifice attempt. But as catcher Phinney fielded the ball and attempted a throw to second base, a hindering action occurred as batter-runner Kluska ran into the catcher.</div><div><br /></div><div>To determine whether or not this is interference requires a visit to the rulebook.</div><div><br /></div><div>NCAA Rule 8-5-d states that a runner is out when they commit interference, specifically when—"<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #20124d;">The runner interferes intentionally with a throw or thrown ball, or interferes with a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball. If a double play is likely, and the runner intentionally interferes with the fielder who is attempting to field or throw the ball, both runner and batter-runner shall be declared out.</span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>Had this play occurred in MLB/MiLB, the rule is <i>somewhat</i> similar. For instance, OBR 5.09(b)(3) puts the runner out when "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">they intentionally interfere with a thrown ball; or hinder a fielder attempting to make a play on a batted ball</span></span>," while the rule dedicated to interference, OBR 6.01(a), in provision (10) puts a runner out for interference when "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">He fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a</span></span><div><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball.</span></span>" We must return to 5.09(a)(13) to see this also applies to a fielder <i>in the act of throwing</i>: <span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">"...intentionally interfere with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball or to throw a ball in an attempt to complete any play.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>High school treats this play similarly pursuant to NFHS 8-4-2g: "<span style="background-color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #20124d;">any runner is out when the runner intentionally interferes with a throw or a thrown ball.</span></span>"</div><div><br /></div><div>With all rulesets roughly the same, we concentrate on our sequence. We notice the catcher appears to field the batted ball successfully, prior to the batter-runner/catcher collision. Thus, the catcher's <i>right of way</i> protection during a batted ball has expired, because the ball is no longer a batted ball, having been fielded.</div><div><br /></div><div>Instead, the batter-runner/catcher interaction occurs during the attempted throwing phase of play, meaning the more stringent standard of intentionality applies. If the batter-runner's actions are deemed intentional, this is interference and, conceivably, the dead ball can result in a double play if the umpire deems circumstances are appropriate. But if the hindrance is deemed unintentional—an unfortunate tangle and nothing more—then the rules do not support an interference call in this case.</div><div><br /><div>Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Sl0bLmgAQkI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Sl0bLmgAQkI" target="_blank">College batter-runner and catcher collide...is this interference or incidental?</a></div></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-11477716522020549312024-02-14T13:38:00.000-08:002024-02-14T13:39:10.351-08:00Obstruction Calls Are 2024's Point of Emphasis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/obstruction-calls-are-2024s-point-of.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="1154" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZoIKLyVy3OxOx0VjTvmPKOqY9CdNPhZex-UMW1KoAB-M2MdlRR_Qf6Ozd3Qt-0V6Cul22eeaMPvRhDgACvuyplU28L07rOELx5wkgvsEA0XQB-ofMwds4aUkUpkalHz_nbZfJFQyVmJP5g0zR_1vFzi78q7ageHRFRyH3RGug7ROmQGJ09D3f5glfQc/s320/obstruction-poe.png" width="320" /></a></div>Obstruction calls are set to increase in 2024 thanks to a new MLB point of emphasis of Official Baseball Rule 6.01(h), according to an <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/39524850/sources-mlb-enforce-obstruction-bases" target="_blank">ESPN source</a>. Succinctly, the league office will instruct umpires to rule a runner safe in the event a fielder blocks a runner's path to the base while preparing to receive a throw.<div><br /></div><div>This point of emphasis brings OBR 6.01(h) into greater alignment with 6.01(i)(2), the Collisions at Home Plate rule for fielders that functionally employs a similar penalty to the existing obstruction rule, but only applies at home plate and is also much more strict in its standard for violation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Home plate collision rule OBR 6.01(i)(2) states, in part, "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Unless the catcher is in possession of the ball, the catcher cannot block the pathway of the runner as they are attempting to score...it shall not be considered a violation of this Rule 6.01(i)(2) if the catcher blocks the pathway of the runner in a legitimate attempt to field the throw</span></span>."</div><div><br /></div><div>Meanwhile, the existing definition for Obstruction (at any base), as found in the rulebook's Definition of Terms, states: "<span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><span style="color: #20124d;">Obstruction is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress of any runner</span></span>."</div><div><br /></div><div>The definition of obstruction predates the home plate collision rule by a number of decades and is plainly not as detailed. Although OBR and the MLB Umpire Manual both make reference to "the act of fielding" relative to obstruction, the phrase "legitimate attempt" is nowhere to be seen in this particular rule relative to a fielder preparing to receive a throw who might use their leg to block a runner's base path.</div><div><br /></div><div>Over the past few years, <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/search/label/Runner%27s%20Lane%20Interference" target="_blank">runner's lane interference</a>—<a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/12/2024-major-mlb-rules-changes.html" target="_blank">a rule since changed prior to the 2024 season by expanding the width of the runner's lane</a>—has received emphasis, which in turn resulted in a handful of additional arguments and ejections.</div><div><br /></div><div>Will obstruction suffer this same fate? | Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZS5zJ71qkyk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/ZS5zJ71qkyk" target="_blank">MLB instructs umps to call more obstruction on the bases in 2024 POE</a>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-49702772417126612172024-02-12T15:50:00.000-08:002024-03-16T13:09:10.388-07:00Clint Vondrak and Ryan Wills Hired to Umpire Staff, Guccione Promoted to Crew Chief; Pawol on List of 24 Spring Invitees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/clint-vondrak-and-ryan-wills-hired-to.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1403" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-tEZWt9k7qXRxN1YTgDVxgknttcZ4o3n1c_M1Dx23mt6s47Iel4c7IUskiCp4JLoN-7goh2J86SApFhQOj3pbM6KA3LjdeTmVOOEHGnu0wu2v4iYkqrizND5uvtdUrZLznqFacSRU0_UrCj9TDiVjyS16lTtuZUU6nUdAbqVfH1r1Pj7krHHqRWgysw/s320/Pasted_Image_2_12_24__3_31_PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>Now-former Triple-A umpires Clint Vondrak and Ryan Wills are MLB's two newest full-timers MLB also promoted Chris Guccione to full-time Crew Chief and invited Jen Pawol to Spring Training, the first woman set to umpire a major league exhibition game since Ria Cortesio in 2007, following Pam Postema in the 1980s.<div><br /></div><div><b>Clinton "Clint" Vondrak</b> joins MLBU at the age of 34 after 12 years in Minor League Baseball, joining MiLB in 2012 and officiating the Pioneer, Midwest, California, Southern, and Pacific Coast Leagues on his way to the majors. Vondrak officiated the 2016 Southern League All-Star Game and has had his MLB debut during during the COVID-shortened 2020 season, on <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2020/08/mlb-debut-of-umpire-clinton-clint.html" target="_blank">August 10, 2020</a>. He has 286 games of MLB experience.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ryan Wills</b> is 36 years old to begin the 2024 season and has been hired after 13 years in MiLB. Since starting his minor league career in 2011, Wills has officiated in the Gulf Coast, Appalachian, South Atlantic, California, Carolina, Texas, Eastern, Florida Instructional, and International Leagues prior to his <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2020/07/mlb-debut-of-umpire-ryan-wills.html" target="_blank">August 22, 2020 debut</a>. Wills might be one of the last MLB new-hires to have graduated from the Jim Evans Academy for Professional Umpiring, which <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2012/02/conflict-of-interest-or-no-brainer-jim.html" target="_blank">closed</a> in 2012. Wills has worked 402 MLB games.</div><div>
<br /><b>Chris Guccione</b> has been promoted to Crew Chief after 17 years of major league service (over the course of 24 seasons starting in 2000). He has 3,021 major league games of experience during the regular season, in addition to 9 Wild Card Rounds, 7 Division Series, 5 League Championship Series, and 2 World Series. Similar to Dan Bellino last offseason, Guccione did not work the 2023 postseason prior to his 2024 promotion.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2024 Spring Training Invitee Umpires</b>: Returning sleeve-numbered umpires for Spring Training in 2024 are David Arrieta (100), John Bacon (70), Brock Ballou (119), Paul Clemons (104), Tom Hanahan (69), Edwin Jimenez (75), Emil Jimenez (82), Alex MacKay (105), Dan Merzel (107), Jacob Metz (94), Charlie Ramos (111), Jeremy Riggs (112), Derek Thomas (106), Nate Tomlinson (114), and Brian Walsh (120).</div><div><br /></div><div>Rounding out the list of 24 Spring invitees are Matt Brown, Steven Jaschinski, James Jean, Austin Jones, Tyler Jones, Dexter Kelley, Chris Marco, Johnathan Parra, and Jen Pawol.</div><div><br /></div><div>Video as follows:</div><div>
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tus520v3lTY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Tus520v3lTY" target="_blank">MLB hires Vondrak and Wills, Promotes Guccione, Invites Pawol</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-72769954352857431402024-02-04T16:32:00.000-08:002024-02-04T16:32:33.620-08:00Basketball Line is Out - Responding to Fan Complaints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/basketball-line-is-out-responding-to.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="1020" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLhwq60M0HZiZtXCNkOCTjC9dgJrs9Vxj51Lxi0HrGtBuqTlc-GS6_EvevaNG2aAkyPKwnVlT0_l-eciHLWdz46hpasJaPhfmRg3Q-IKFytAPVXjUeOLtQfFKPWOTumdaED9UCezlwtwXUkv5NTFPb2Jfar6uTWyLctdVUUSvGPc7QPEEyNiwIKsbzn8/s320/basket-wisc.png" width="320" /></a></div>During Sunday's NCAA Men's Basketball game between Wisconsin and Purdue, some Badgers fans were upset with the officiating crew over a displacement related foul call and an out of vs in bounds no-call for an inbounder. Let's take a look.<div><br /></div><div>The foul call pertains to an attempted trap defense near the end line. The Boilermakers ballcarrier picks up his dribble and is defended before appearing to either travel or step out of bounds, only for the center official to signal a foul.</div><div><br /></div><div>What the referee saw was the defensive player move forward and into the offensive player, displacing the ballcarrier with a knee and causing the potential violation. Ergo, foul call.</div><div><br /></div><div>But the focus of today's lines lesson pertains to a complaint about referees no-calling an inbounder who stepped on the line before inbounding the basketball. The purpose of this video and article is to reiterate that the end- and side lines are always out of bounds such that when an inbounder, standing out of bounds, steps on (but not across) one of these lines, that player is still considered out of bounds.</div><div><div><br />Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vMAiV_dA7fI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/vMAiV_dA7fI" target="_blank">Reacting to fan complaints over a foul call and inbounds violation no-call</a></div></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-9226899661416915242024-02-01T14:42:00.000-08:002024-02-01T14:49:54.992-08:00MLB Umpire Ed Hickox Retires From 28-Year Career<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/02/mlb-umpire-ed-hickox-retires-from-28.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="1278" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi650cATzp46tmOMrd0-R7qCsuaCyMhODDKi1cVVOlXfTeAqhqAea4F8GSlKFzo-DPXONRMH425U2MraEyvcRxRPbnrvlKVgGWtek0mhrIMcsaSUFpfDmPBJKuP2Cd7QJPYRsCpTOhqHw-W8itLufeIIxuclX0n_b6wELRdRVELSietFGv1PuzqKIfa4VM/s320/hickox-retire.png" width="320" /></a></div>28-year MLB umpire Ed Hickox has <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4DG2bTYrZ8" target="_blank">retired</a> from on-field officiating after 28 years of baseball in the American and unified major leagues, capping a career interrupted by a 5 years away from the game due to labor dispute and litigation related to injuries sustained on the field.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hickox's big league career began with a 1990 AL debut and he was one of the 22 AL and NL umpires whose resignations were accepted during an ill-fated bargaining strategy when MLB sought to consolidate umpiring staffs. Hickox returned to the minor leagues as a brand-new Wendelstedt Umpire School recruit in 2002, working his way up the chain until reaching the now-unified MLB staff in 2005.</div><div><br /></div><div>Litigation of a different variety struck Hickox after returning to the big league staff when he suffered concussion and ear injuries in 2005 and again in 2009, filing a lawsuit again Wilson Sporting Goods, whom Hickox alleged had given him a defective helmet he wore when he suffered the injuries.</div><div><br /></div><div>A District of Columbia Superior Court jury <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2011/04/umpire-odds-ends-wilson-lawsuit-award.html" target="_blank">ordered</a> Wilson pay Hickox $775,000 for damages (this award was ultimately appealed and affirmed).</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to full-time major league umpiring, Hickox <a href="https://www.wesh.com/article/umpire-part-time-daytona-beach-shores-detective/38571461" target="_blank">worked</a> part-time as a Daytona Beach Shores detective.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hickox retires after 28 years and 2,707 major league games, alongside 5 Division Series and 36 ejections.</div><div><br />Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7WnqN0p2ZP4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/7WnqN0p2ZP4" target="_blank">Ed Hickox retires from MLB service after bifuracted big league career</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-87960320376039431012024-01-27T14:55:00.000-08:002024-01-27T14:55:25.941-08:00Coach Throws Shoe at Referee, Player Throws Shoe to Play Defense - Technically Speaking...<div class="separator"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/01/coach-throws-shoe-at-referee-player.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1274" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNo6PC9WOpt-8Db3wZ9Wyk4mmbYBYxb5214ORnlg5BaRjDsNODJ_LwPCXBadnEmhhguK3nVAUTRQlJ2jH4P6_K7jaHjopVlHCu2OsQPcyaw1Xh4V6FnyZfI2WH_gJTw0_FtNyKWdYdBAgaKW2uBGnQf8AC97b8FtaM39H8kx4C9J_X6FUHC3Y9Onf5-9k/s320/shoe-throw.png" width="320" /></a></div>A disgruntled head coach threw his shoe at a referee during a basketball game, while a player used his shoe to try and block a shot attempt, leading to a few technical fouls and one ejection for illegal use of sneakers...kind of.<div><br /></div><div><b>NCAA Men's Basketball - Player Throws Shoe to Play Defense</b>: During a Stonehill College vs Long Island University game in Brooklyn, Skyhawks guard Tony Felder slipped out of his shoe while on offense in the front court. As the player picked up his fallen shoe, play shifted to the other end of the floor and instead of putting the shoe back on, Felder sprinted to play defense, shoe in hand.</div><div><br /></div><div>As Sharks forward Tana Kopa pump-faked a three point try, Felder jumped into the frame, appearing to throw his shoe in an attempt to block the potential shot. Play was whistled dead immediately and Felder assessed a technical foul for the shoe throw.</div><div><br /></div><div>In NCAA Men's college, there are two basic types of technicals: Class A and Class B. The primary difference between the two is that Class A pertains to unsporting acts while Class B includes technical fouls that aren't maliciously unsporting in nature or otherwise don't rise to the severity of Class A. Class A's result in two free throws, count as one of two technicals for disqualification, and are added to the team foul count for bonus purposes. Class B's result in one free throw, do not count as one of the two DQ technicals (through three B's result in an ejection [or two B's plus one A]), and do not get the team fouls-toward-bonus treatment. Both resume at point of interruption.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>NFHS Boys' Basketball - Head Coach Throws Shoe at Referee</b>: While the Brooklyn shoe-throw might not have risen to the level of Class A, JSerra head coach Keith Wilkinson's conduct certainly did as he threw his shoe at a referee during a Trinity League game at Mater Dei after a no-call. Add in a second shoe-throw/spike and Wilkinson was ejected...and <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2024/01/12/jserra-boys-basketball-coach-keith-wilkinson-suspended-for-six-games/">suspended</a> six games.</div><div><br /></div><div>High school ball has no Class A vs B technical foul distinction—these were simply two bench technicals assessed to the head coach.</div><div><br /></div><div>Long story short, throwing a shoe to play defense or otherwise is nearly always illegal.<br />
<br />Video as follows:</div><div>
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OtdnWagCat0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />
Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/OtdnWagCat0">Coach Throws Shoe at Referee, Player Throws Shoe to Play Defense - Technical Foul Review</a></div><br />Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-68238353563234014912024-01-23T11:43:00.000-08:002024-01-23T11:43:34.738-08:00Why did Penguins Penalty Continue After Own Goal?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/01/why-did-penguins-penalty-continue-after.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="1399" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3mXWI-sDz0s-zuOvXfkTRu5bZPpcslSx_89ZGxGQvYU4tFmHEmSngR9MwW5YGYruStxYeOInrJqwFAfNCB8FaadqNt-wuqNgKw9i4S-FBnZtTtMQO-TXFZtxdxty1_zzLkR7YWRGALPHBs8pg0qOaBdgy1HOo9Pbe9NwADrjsIIfQbq8iOf0i0Z2iiw/s320/owngoalhockey.png" width="320" /></a></div>The Coyotes scored an unusual Power Play Goal wherein Penguins player Jansen Harkins remained in the box on a minor penalty even through Arizona scored a PPG. Pittsburgh had drawn a delayed penalty and attempted to kill off their penalty by pulling their goalie and playing keep-away in their defensive zone...accidentally scoring an own goal when Evgeni Malkin's pass to Kris Letang slid into the empty net.<div><br /></div><div>Under the hockey rules, this is still considered a Power Play Goal, but one scored without a numerical advantage for Arizona. Instead of the usual 5-on-4 skater format of a power play, Pittsburgh had voluntarily pulled its goalie to create a 5-on-5 skater situation, effectively eliminating the numerical strength disparity for skaters in an attempt to waste time.</div><div><br /></div><div>As a result, this qualifies as a goal scored during numeric equality, so even though Pittsburgh was serving a minor penalty, the penalty <i>did not terminate</i> upon the Coyotes goal, as there was no numeric advantage (for skaters) at the time of the goal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Play thus resumed with Harkins remaining in the box for Pittsburgh and Arizona's Jason Zucker in the penalty box as well for the now-no-longer-delayed hooking minor penalty.<br />
<br />Video as follows:<br />
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Aaum9ZmzlKg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />
Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/Aaum9ZmzlKg" target="_blank">Penguins score own goal, but Arizona keeps its power play (on a minor)? Why?</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-1862618198709301872024-01-04T16:21:00.000-08:002024-01-04T16:22:03.448-08:00Detroit Loses 2-Point Conversion After Illegal Touching - NFL Rules and Referee Analysis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2024/01/detroit-loses-2-point-conversion-after.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1021" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfQ2y3uVrTaukov7TvApQn72l0W5FkMrV8bfvfyP3NE8_r4M3K9wEOLpftVWF5Heloipi8diCKumJWE7AOs7HumFyVuX84Wh8zW-F2mHuMYWIpz5SRmsiLlDh8D9gItrPAFfcfuzQtO0Eh5Q792d9GQZaAI5X_CRRYOdvUpvXzDhuHg3x2XnI71qmzQF8/s320/eligibile.png" width="320" /></a></div>When NFL referee Brad Allen called Lions offensive tackle Taylor Decker for an illegal touching penalty during a two-point conversion try late in the 4th quarter of a one-point game against Dallas, it effectively wiped Detroit's 21-20 lead off the board, turning it into a 20-19 eventual victory for the Cowboys. What happened here?<div><br /></div><div>At the heart of this play is football's rule concerning receiver eligibility—in general, lineman and tackles (who generally wear uniform numbers between 50 and 79)—are ineligible to receive forward passes or run downfield to receive such a pass. Detroit's Decker wears #68 and is thus ineligible...that is unless he reports to the referee to declare himself eligible for a specific play.</div><div><br /></div><div>Replays indicate Decker approaching referee Allen prior to the play, but so did two other Lions players, including offensive lineman Dan Skipper, who wears #70.</div><div><br /></div><div>Pursuant to football officiating mechanics, Allen quickly ran to tell the defense and made a public address announcement, twice stating that #70 had reported as an eligible receiver for this play.</div><div><br /></div><div>Detroit ran its play and #68 Decker caught quarterback Jared Goff's forward pass in the end-zone for an apparent successful two-point conversion...until Allen announced a penalty for illegal touching, reverting the score to Dallas 20, Detroit 19 (a subsequent two-point conversion attempt failed and Dallas won the game).</div><div><br /></div><div>At the heart of the matter is the confusion and miscommunication that occurred when both #68 and 70 approached referee Allen, who dashed off to tell the defense and announce the eligible reporter, apparently reading "70" when Detroit meant "68"...except Detroit either didn't notice or otherwise didn't correct the referee when the public announcement over the PA sounded as "number 70 is eligible."</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lindsay's Call</b>: I am not a football official but of the sports I do officiate, it would appear to me the primary culprit may have been a player stating "I am eligible" (or "I'm reporting" or some other variation) and the referee <i>assuming</i> that because #70 had reported eligible earlier in the game, #70 was reporting again.</div><div><br /></div><div>To remedy this conflict, might I suggest white hats opt not to take the pronoun "I" as sufficient identification, especially when <i>multiple</i> players who may all declare eligibility approach the referee at roughly the same time? Instead, I would suggest the referee read back a number (or outright ask "What number?") in order to confirm the identity of the eligible player reporting.</div><div><br /></div><div>That way—through stating the <i>number</i> of the player—this communication loophole can be closed.</div><div>
<br />Video as follows:<br />
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xgulM67CiW4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe> </div><div>Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/xgulM67CiW4" target="_blank">Eligibility chaos and referee analysis in controversial DET-DAL finish</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-57853703409726076482023-12-22T14:52:00.000-08:002023-12-22T14:53:11.206-08:002024 Major MLB Rules Changes - A CCS Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/12/2024-major-mlb-rules-changes.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1398" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNNeaXJ9j1aTZiRaEU-JqjFiTbhCbuG8GRCuTIREGG6uKWZx3eIVHoepcY8jXvhU7YXA_cFdxhhFUiXedZGZBzlBISYC3R9JgX6bknjWAqvYiBhnOWsY6Z8HeIANyjGRjXfN9QtqI7OJJvyHtv_LSymZM562-jDfLp-VAonKdzTTt7-f57TkGXpPnEls/s320/rules-changes-2024.png" width="320" /></a></div>Major League Baseball announced several rules changes approved by MLB's Competition Committee for the 2024 season, including reductions in the pitch clock timer and mound visit limit, new pitcher minimums, and an expansion of the runner's lane to a wider space.<div><br /></div><div><b><u>Pitch Clock</u></b></div><div>Although the 15-second bases-empty pitch clock and 30-second between-batters pitch clock will remain the same in 2024, MLB will reduce the runners-on-base limit by two seconds, from 2023's mark of 20-seconds to <b>18</b> <b>seconds</b> in 2024. Furthermore, the pitch timer following foul balls or other dead ball situations will now begin upon <b>the pitcher receiving the new baseball</b> as opposed to 2023's start of the pitcher entering the dirt circle or mound area.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Mound Visit Limit</u></b></div><div>In 2023, teams were permitted five mound visits per game before being compelled to remove a pitcher for any subsequent visit exceeding this allotment. Umpires had discretion late in games to allow a mound visit without requiring the pitcher's removal. In 2024, teams will be allowed <b>four</b> mound visits until the 9th inning, when umpires may afford teams an additional visit without the must-remove-pitcher penalty.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Pitcher Minimum</u></b></div><div>In addition to the existing three-batter minimum rule for pitchers, 2024 will now require any pitcher who warms up on the field prior to an inning to face at least one batter (three for any pitcher newly into the game). This will prevent managers from executing pitching changes after warmups but before the first batter of the new inning.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Runner's Lane</u></b></div><div>Due to a flurry of runner's interference incidents, MLB will expand the runner's lane in 2024 to include the entirety of the dirt path between home plate and first base in fair territory, in addition to the existing three-foot wide lane in foul territory during the latter half of the distance to first base. This expansion effectively means runners may run to first base without penalty in fair territory, provided that both feet remain on <i>or touching</i> the dirt. A runner will be deemed legal if half of their foot is on the dirt and half on the infield grass in fair territory.<br />
<br />Video as follows:<br />
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B-FZXrPcEP0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />
Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/B-FZXrPcEP0" target="_blank">Reviewing MLB's 2024 rules changes</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-53412263004120123922023-11-28T15:11:00.000-08:002023-11-28T15:11:09.688-08:002023 CCS Year-End Umpire Award Winners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/11/2023-ccs-year-end-umpire-award-winners.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="244" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjPfEoFinrGX-vFqq2-IVNmjZHkQ2lgQr5lri1Ng391tHLv9kQ1f_rXltF78gW-pcuVhbiFXAcbjx6LHr1CQH3ZJ67s4T_BIYdstomGp5GIlJwCwRCCYqbRc8MMQTiJzixTNa2ODLnc64L/s0/Pasted_Image_11_15_21__11_42_AM.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>Close Call Sports announces recipients of its 2023 Year-End Umpire Awards, thanks to your nominations and comments. Read on for Crew Chief, Fill-In, Most Improved, Honorable, Promising, and the hallmark Best Overall Umpire of the Year awards.<div><br /></div><div><b>(Best Overall) Umpire of the Year</b>: <b>Quinn Wolcott</b>.</div><div><i>Runners-Up: Chris Guccione, Brian Knight</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quinn Wolcott is the CCS 2023 Umpire of the Year after finishing the 2023 season with the highest cumulative plate score on staff, including the best seasonal score since modern-era tracking began in 2015. For his efforts, Wolcott received his first career World Series assignment, having officiated a 2023 American League Division Series two rounds earlier.</div><div>
<br /><i>
Seven Other Awards and Video follow (via "read more")</i>:<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Ejections of the Year</b>: 2023's Ejection of the Year Awards go to <b>Doug Eddings</b> for his ejection of Dave Martinez and <b>Laz Diaz</b> who ran Aaron Boone before proceeding to have an extended conversation about strike three mechanics.</div><div><i>Related Post</i>: <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/06/mlb-ejection-111-doug-eddings-3-dave.html" target="_blank">MLB Ejection 111 - Doug Eddings (3; Dave Martinez)</a> (6/22/23).</div><div><i>Related Post</i>: <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/08/mlb-ejection-182-laz-diaz-1-aaron-boone.html" target="_blank">MLB Ejection 182 - Laz Diaz (1; Aaron Boone)</a> (8/7/23).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Promising Umpires of the Year</b>: <b>Ben May</b> and <b>Jansen Visconti</b>.</div><div><i>Runners-Up: Alex Tosi, Quinn Wolcott</i>.</div><div>Ben May and Jansen Visconti are our Promising Umpires of the Year in 2023. Both umpires worked the 2023 Division Series—May's first—and were slotted for plate assignments too, which are not granted to every umpire assigned to the ALDS and NLDS. Situation handling during the season and strong performances also contributed to earning these awards. For instance, Visconti's <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/p/replay-stats.html">Review Affirmation Percentage</a> of .688 (5 overturns in 16 total replays) was one of the highest on staff this season. May's .692 RAP (4 OT's out of 13 chances) was even higher.</div><div><i>Related: </i><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/p/replay-stats.html" target="_blank">Replay Review Statistics</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bernice Gera Honorable Umpire</b>: <b>Jeff Nelson</b>.</div><div><i>Runner-Up: Larry Vanover</i>.</div><div>At the tail-end of a 27-year NL and MLB career, Crew Chief Jeff Nelson <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/11/mlb-umpire-jeff-nelson-retires-after-27.html" target="_blank">retired</a> after thousands of regular season games called and 27 postseason series assignments, but humbly requested the league not assign him to a 2023 postseason series, instead opting to conclude his career on the final day of the regular season in Anaheim (with teams that, likewise, would not be advancing to the playoffs).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Fill-In Umpire of the Year</b>: <b>Ryan Wills</b>.</div><div><i>Runner-Up: Derek Thomas</i>.</div><div>Commenters found Ryan Wills to be the Triple-A call-up who this season made the best case for an off-season hiring to the full-time staff. "Heavy usage, virtually unnoticeable, nails behind the plate" was Turducken's description of Wills, who, like Visconti and May, had one of the best RAP performances this season, at a .682 clip (7 OT's out of 22 chances), a higher score than most full-timers and call-ups, alike.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Most Improved Umpire of the Year</b>: <b>Andy Fletcher</b>.</div><div><i>Runner-Up: Mike Estabrook</i>.</div><div>Andy Fletcher, like Chris Guccione, took on additional crew chief responsibilities during the season. For his efforts, Fletcher received his first career League Championship Series assignment, a Game 1 plate, after previously working a Game 1 plate during the Wild Card round as well (in which only three of the six-umpire crew are assigned plates [2 guaranteed, 1 potential]).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Crew Chief of the Year</b>: <b>Alan Porter</b>.</div><div><i>Runner-Up: Mark Carlson</i>.</div><div>Alan Porter is 2023's Crew Chief of the Year due to a strong performance in his first season as a full-time Chief, not just with plate scores or replays but situation handling and stepping into the role of crew leadership. In the postseason, Porter served as Crew Chief for an NL Wild Card Series.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Most Disappointing Season</b>: Award Not Given This Year.</div><div><i>Runner-Up: CB Bucknor.</i></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-UQfuZzIDLg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/-UQfuZzIDLg" target="_blank">2023 Close Call Sports Year-End Umpire Awards</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-20838851822061692172023-11-13T13:04:00.000-08:002023-11-13T13:04:43.330-08:002023 CCS Year-End Umpire Awards Nominations Open<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/11/2023-ccs-year-end-umpire-awards.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="244" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjPfEoFinrGX-vFqq2-IVNmjZHkQ2lgQr5lri1Ng391tHLv9kQ1f_rXltF78gW-pcuVhbiFXAcbjx6LHr1CQH3ZJ67s4T_BIYdstomGp5GIlJwCwRCCYqbRc8MMQTiJzixTNa2ODLnc64L/s0/Pasted_Image_11_15_21__11_42_AM.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>Close Call Sports announces its annual Umpire Ejection Fantasy League Postseason Awards and opens nominations and elections at this time. You may vote for 7 different award categories. Reply to this post if you wish to campaign for or explain why you chose a certain umpire for a specific award.</div><div><br /></div><div>Post-Season Awards Include:</div><div>a. Umpire of the Year (min. 1 / max. 1 umpire) +5</div><div>b. Promising Umpire of the Year (min. 1 / max. 2) +3</div><div>c. Bernice Gera Honorable Umpire (min. 0 / max. 1) +2</div><div>d. Fill-In Umpire of the Year (min. 0 / max. 1) +2</div><div>e. Most Improved Umpire (min. 0 / max. 1) +1</div><div>f. Crew Chief of the Year (min. 0 / max. 1) +1</div><div>g. Best Ejection of the Year (min. 0 / max. 2) +1</div><div>h. Most Disappointing Season (min. 0 / max. 1) -1</div><div><br /></div><div>In lieu of the postseason awards ballot, we will be accepting nominations via <i>replay/comments</i> on this post or on our other social media outlets.</div><div><br /></div><div>An eligible umpire may be selected for as many or as few awards as that umpire is eligible for; Ballots will be accepted until 11:59pm on Sunday, November 19, with awards distribution beginning shortly thereafter.</div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-35782064570131924042023-11-02T12:57:00.002-07:002023-11-02T12:58:11.187-07:00MLB Umpire Jeff Nelson Retires After 27 Year Career<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/11/mlb-umpire-jeff-nelson-retires-after-27.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="998" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHYfAgVg1YB2nIVOKXGn8CBdp8OEOO3qZIzoDvIWzqsXjZkcEJuuXR3nt4HtCGCMGT5uUJE_qOw37-sdt4Mt2jUHZCCRR6O28KrBvGsKly9I_VNoON7G1daqUDkl7PMiEoTILIDzH3QpNTRI21wqt65HayrcVEivKARUnCGvw_4tzd0VQulhZtmxXeUQ/s320/CCS_Screenflow.png" width="320" /></a></div>Veteran MLB umpire and crew chief Jeff Nelson has retired after 27 years of major league service, according to Nelson's hometown <i><a href="https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-native-jeff-nelson-retires-mlb-umpire-patrick-reusse/600315372/?refresh=true" target="_blank">StarTribune</a></i>.<div><br /></div><div>Nelson leaves the highest level of baseball having officiated over 3,100 big league games, beginning with a National League stint in 1997. Nelson officiated six Wild Card Series, eight Division Series, nine League Championship Series, and four World Series during his major league career.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nelson racked up 75 total MLB ejections during his career, the first of Alex Arias, Barry Bonds, and Ricky Bottalico during an intentional HBP and bench-clearing brawl situation in 1998, and concluding with Brian Sweeney on <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/09/mlb-ejection-221-jeff-nelson-3-brian.html" target="_blank">September 8, 2023</a>.<br />
<br />Video as follows:<br />
<a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3lGub1AxIEk?si=gCxUu2vU27UpLw_F" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />
Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/3lGub1AxIEk" target="_blank">Jeff Nelson retires after 27-year major league umpiring career</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-51852579415980598012023-10-25T15:41:00.001-07:002023-10-25T15:41:45.139-07:002023 MLB World Series Umpire Roster<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/10/2023-mlb-world-series-umpire-roster.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="244" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnFnZqu5GqqUCkiAxG0t7jyX23x4PuDmrlHwODOU1SElMH2fXsLz9KJ4JjgVnngUE0cQ3g0cfJwlPhYwFdVbNRxjfEEj5kyVbJP48uWAV-Zsrg9FAsmJebQAFC_PoQxDm7dPKevIkGsBd/s0/series.png" width="244" /></a></div>Major League Baseball assigned seven umpires to the 2023 MLB World Series featuring the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks. Bill Miller will serve as crew chief while Alfonso Marquez will be backup chief. Five of the seven-person crew are officiating their first career World Series.</div><div><br /></div><div>Crew Chiefs are indicated in bold text and by the -cc suffix with regular season crew chiefs denoted by an asterisk (*). Those working their first World Series are marked with ^1st WS^. The following listings feature Game 1 configurations such that the plate umpire from Game 1 will work right field in Game 2, and all other umpires will move clockwise (e.g., 3B becomes 2B). Games 4 and 5 plates are if necessary. All World Series umpires are taken from a pool of umps who officiated the 2023 AL and NL Division Series.</div><div><br /></div><div><u>MLB World Series (Arizona Diamondbacks vs Texas Rangers) Umpires:</u></div><div>HP: DJ Reyburn ^1st WS^ [Game 1 Plate] [2 WC, 4 DS, 1 LCS, <b>1st World Series</b>]</div><div>1B: Alfonso Márquez* [Game 3 Plate] [3 WC, 12 DS, 6 LCS, 5th World Series]</div><div>2B: David Rackley ^1st WS^ [Game 4 Plate] [4 WC, 3 DS, 1 LCS, <b>1st World Series</b>]</div><div>3B: Brian Knight ^1st WS^ [Game 5 Plate] [3 WC, 5 DS, 1 LCS, <b>1st World Series</b>]</div><div>LF: Vic Carapazza ^1st WS^ [Game 6 Plate] [2 WC, 6 DS, 2 LCS, <b>1st World Series</b>]</div><div>RF: <b>Bill Miller* -cc</b> [Game 7 Plate] <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>[6 WC, 11 DS, 8 LCS, 5th World Series]<br />Reserve: Quinn Wolcott [Game 2 Plate] [3 WC, 4 DS, 1 LCS, <b>1st World Series</b>]</div><div><div><br /></div><div><u>World Series Replay Review</u>: Lance Barrett, Todd Tichenor.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-6HInb6UqoE" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/-6HInb6UqoE" target="_blank">Postseason Umpire Roster Announcement: 2023 World Series</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-32794074946356883892023-10-20T19:08:00.002-07:002023-10-21T07:46:05.217-07:00MLB Postseason Ejections P1-3 - Hudson, Hoye (HOU-TEX)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/10/mlb-postseason-ejections-p1-3-hudson.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="1024" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEfi84R5o1HG2sFcG8dQkVyIfn4V1Z0u2XPxArDacSb4sbjAdtQWG7en7Rz2t6U4hBtU1mlXdlVGFzh0QyLGzASnmOlEqSIrIbHm3V4L1K1O5Xl8pJ3AinwDT6yAJH_tt9QAk9lgf8dekdGI2lGElgVxZs03NSdHgGErYeQbn2t__iDhiJfcsREkbyISQ/s320/hudeuia-hoyker.png" width="320" /></a></div>HP Umpire Marvin Hudson ejected Astros pitcher Bryan Abreu (throwing at Rangers batter Adolis Garcia) and Rangers RF Garcia (fighting) and LF Umpire James Hoye ejected Astros manager Dusty Baker (arguing ejection) in the bottom of the 8th inning of the #Astros-#Rangers game. With none out and one on, Rangers batter Garcia took a first-pitch fastball from Astros pitcher Abreu for a hit-by-pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located inside and struck Garcia in the upper left arm, the call was irrecusable. At the time of the ejections, the Rangers were leading, 4-2. The Astros ultimately won the contest, 5-4.<br />
<br />
These are Marvin Hudson (51)'s 6th and 7th ejections of 2023.<div>This is James Hoye (92)'s 4th ejection of 2023.<br /><div><br /></div><div>These are the 1st and 2nd ejection reports of the 2023 MLB postseason (240th and 241st overall).</div><div>These are the 97th and 98th player ejections of 2023. This is the 109th manager ejection of 2023.</div><div><i>Ejection Tally: 109 Managers, 98 players, 34 coaches</i>.</div><div>This is Houston's 6/7th ejection of 2023, T-4th in the AL West (OAK 10; TEX 9; SEA 8; LAA, <b>HOU 7</b>).</div><div>This is Texas' 9th ejection of 2023, 2nd in the AL West (OAK 10; <b>TEX 9</b>; SEA 8; LAA, HOU 7).</div><div>This is Bryan Abreu's first career MLB ejection.</div><div>This is Dusty Baker's 2nd ejection of 2023, 1st since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/06/mlb-ejections-116-7-junior-valentine.html" target="_blank">June 24 (Manny Gonzalez; QOC = Y-c [Balk])</a>.</div><div>This is Adolis Garcia's 2nd ejection of 2023, 1st since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/07/mlb-ejection-141-gabe-morales-2-adolis.html" target="_blank">July 8 (Gabe Morales; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes])</a>.</div><div>This is Marvin Hudson's 6/7th ejection of 2023, 1st since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/07/mlb-ejections-159-60-hudson-wendelstedt.html" target="_blank">July 25 (Angel Perdomo; QOC = U [Throwing At])</a>.</div><div>This is James Hoye's 4th ejection of 2023, 1st since <a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/08/mlb-ejection-195-james-hoye-3-brad.html" target="_blank">Aug 13 (Brad Wilkerson; QOC = N [Balls/Strikes])</a>.<br />
<br />
Wrap: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/astros-vs-rangers/2023/10/20/748550" target="_blank">Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers (ALCS Game 5), 10/20/23</a> | Video as follows:</div><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HFfloOHciYc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/HFfloOHciYc" target="_blank">Hoye ejects some rando in the dugout who I thought was Don Zimmer</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-50184159080632821382023-10-20T16:59:00.001-07:002023-10-20T17:00:03.248-07:00September 2023 Top 5 Calls of the Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/10/september-2023-top-5-calls-of-month.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1273" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMDNzI4OCFZ01lXsezT7rjMKPu-e1LaI_Ew3VjarG6jgjm0JLilzl8hIOee-wRqnYiAwCeQQ8y5ozr_b1WZWNIwH8UQh-NoD2VDjz8PatIvNGMl4jmYNKQeLB-_5eUplZLwe4VAich3UBNWkSgGbyBddCfZtGYu35LPtl-t5bTiQ3TpWdpdhnmHO2UDmU/s320/cotm-sept.png" width="320" /></a></div>September 2023's Top 5 Calls of the Month showcase five close plays across baseball that umpires were able to officiate correctly thanks to hustle, sound mechanics, and patient judgment.<div><br /></div><div><b>Top 5 Calls of the Month - September 2023</b></div><div><br /></div><div>5. Jeremy Riggs' swipe tag at first base.</div><div>4. Alfonso Marquez's no home run, no fan interference.</div><div>3. Ryan Additon's walk-off caught stealing at second.</div><div>2. Jeremie Rehak's catcher's interference on a swing and a miss.</div><div>1. John Tumpane gets low to call a play at the plate.<br /><br />Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aJGyOU2SZS0" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/aJGyOU2SZS0" target="_blank">September 2023 Calls of the Month - Highlighting Umpiring's Best Replays</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4917712291092871273.post-90818842291608662662023-10-13T11:46:00.004-07:002023-10-13T12:32:48.085-07:002023 AL and NL League Championship Series Umpire Roster<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.closecallsports.com/2023/10/2023-al-and-nl-league-championship.html" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="244" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJT40mfxR9UNOv7-mwPwtuYWRti78A8zc_UcSrOS-iwiuUrRAecwBC2R98mdi6J_0LBCCvwyAuKLMsyCdZO3D097wlaef4lYbtoKfSfp50x6_62CjX8nS8zSNCYjOxslRHJBg1-ah3crk/s0/lcs-umps.png" width="244" /></a></div>Major League Baseball assigned 14 umpires to the 2023 American and National League Championship Series round of the MLB postseason featuring Astros-Rangers (ALCS) and Phillies-Diamondbacks (NLCS). Crew Chiefs are Dan Iassogna and James Hoye.</div><div><br /></div><div>Crew Chiefs are indicated in bold text and by the -cc suffix with regular season crew chiefs denoted by an asterisk (*). Those working their first League Championship Series are marked with ^1st CS^. The following listings feature Game 1 configurations such that the plate umpire from Game 1 will work right field in Game 2, the Reserve umpire falls in rotation between 1B and HP (e.g., 1B->Reserve->HP->RF) and all other umpires will move clockwise (e.g., 3B becomes 2B). Games 5, 6, and 7 plates are if necessary.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><u>AL League Championship Series (Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers) Umpires:</u></div><div>HP: Stu Scheurwater ^1st LCS^ [Game 1 Plate]<span> </span><span> </span><span>[2 WC, 2 DS, <b>1st Lg Champ Series</b>]</span></div><div>1B: <b>James Hoye* -cc</b> [Game 3 Plate] <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>[5 WC, 4 DS, 4th LCS, 2 WS]</div><div>2B: Doug Eddings<b> </b>[Game 4 Plate] <span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>[4 WC, 6 DS, 3rd LCS, 1 WS]</div><div>3B: Marvin Hudson* [Game 5 Plate]<b> </b> [2 WC, 8 DS, 3rd LCS, 2 WS]</div><div>LF: Jordan Baker [Game 6 Plate] [4 WC, 2 DS, 2nd LCS, 1 WS]</div><div>RF: Dan Bellino* [Game 7 Plate]<span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span> [2 WC, 7 DS, 2nd LCS, 1 WS]</div><div>Reserve: Mark Ripperger ^1st LCS^ [Game 2 Plate] [2 WC, 1 DS, <b>1st Lg Champ Series</b>]</div><div><br /></div><div><div><u>NL League Championship Series (Philadelphia Phillies vs Arizona Diamondbacks) Umpires:</u></div><div>HP: Andy Fletcher ^1st LCS^ [Game 1 Plate]<span> </span><span> </span><span>[4 WC, 2 DS, <b>1st Lg Champ Series</b>]</span></div><div>1B: <b>Dan Iassogna* -cc</b> [Game 3 Plate] [4 WC, 7 DS, 7th LCS, 3 WS]</div><div>2B: Mike Muchlinski [Game 4 Plate] [3 WC, 3 DS, 3rd LCS, 1 WS]</div><div>3B: Lance Barksdale* [Game 5 Plate]<b> </b> [4 WC, 6 DS, 4th LCS, 2 WS]</div><div>LF: Tripp Gibson [Game 6 Plate] [4 WC, 3 DS, 2nd LCS, 1 WS]</div><div>RF: Adam Hamari [Game 7 Plate]<span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span> [4 WC, 1 DS, 2nd LCS]</div><div>Reserve: Carlos Torres ^1st LCS^ [Game 2 Plate] [3 WC, 2 DS, <b>1st Lg Champ Series</b>]</div></div><div><br /></div><div><u>League Championship Series Replay Review</u>: Mike Estabrook, Jeremie Rehak, Chris Segal.</div></div><div>Video as follows:<br /><a name='more'></a><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pBmaRSv07z4" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><br />Alternate Link: <a href="https://youtu.be/pBmaRSv07z4" target="_blank">Postseason Umpire Roster Announcement: 2023 ALCS and NLCS</a></div>Lindsayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06361341904305010488noreply@blogger.com0