| Another Look |
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| Written by Troy Chuinard | |
| Tuesday, 13 November 2007 | |
A fly ball is hit to deep left field, and as the outfielder tracks it down, a fan reaches over the wall and grabs it. Should a home run be declared?
It seems that this type of problem in baseball is becoming more and more common, and umpires all across the organization are not able to make concise decisions when these types of bizarre plays occur. We all know that baseball is a game of inches, from foul or fair, safe or out, and strike or ball. Consequently, it can be difficult at times for officials to make the correct calls. Unfortunately, certain teams can suffer when a call is made against them, and we all know how important one game of baseball in the MLB can be down the stretch. Considering that it is now present in almost every other sport, instant replay may be a logical solution to the problems mentioned above. At the recent General Manager Winter meetings in Orlando, Florida, 25 of the 30 Major League Baseball General Managers voted in favor of utilizing instant replay to clarify certain aspects of the game. While these votes don’t have any significant bearing on whether or not the MLB will adopt a replay policy, it is interesting that it received such high favoritism. It seems that in regards to this idea, there are two sides: the conservative party, which is supported by MLB Commissioner Bud Selig, and the revolutionists, who are in complete favor of implementing a replay policy. The proposed idea would allow the umpires to call for a third party, which would then examine the particular play in question. In addition, strikes and balls would still remain to the umpires’ discretion. The two main problems that the General Managers felt needed addressing were home run questionability and fair/foul balls. Undoubtedly, a whole new set of rules would need to be applied so that umpires can signal for a replay at a given time. There is clearly much amending that would need to be done to the MLB rulebook for a replay system to work efficiently. At this point, there is only speculation as to whether or not replay will be integrated. Even though the General Managers have expressed their concern, MLB Commisioner Bug Selig, the Umpiring Staff, and the Players’ Union would also have to vote in favor of the policy. It is highly unlikely that any sort of applications will be made next season. The technology requirements and tampering of the rulebook will both demand sufficient time so that a policy can be properly implemented. What does this mean for the future of baseball? First and foremost, games will probably take a bit longer since officials will have to take more time outs to analyze the situation. However, with more accurate calling, fans will be less inclined to act judgmental. The overall validity of the game will give it more credibility, making it more enjoyable. Will we see a replay policy in 2008? Most likely not. In the near future? You can certainly count on it.
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