A breaking news story that I just saw on ESPN reports that MLB has approved instant replay.
Video will be used to determine close calls on whether a ball left the park (i.e. it hits the top of a fence and bounces back in, is it a homer?) and if a homer is fair or foul. Video may be used for more calls in the future, but for now, it's confined to those two situations.
It will be used on Thursday in the PHI-CHC, MIN-OAK and TEX-LAA series'. All other games will get replay on Friday.
What do I think about this decision by Bud Selig? I think it's brilliant. Ever since Carlos Delgado was robbed of a home run in Yankee Stadium because of a bad call by the umps, I've been hoping that this will get passed.
Many ask, why now? Well, the answer is pretty simple. The playoffs will be here in no time, and the worst-case scenario for MLB is if a crucial game's outcome is altered due to a bad call by an umpire. If that did happen, it would be hell on earth for Bud Selig.
One concern I have is how long reviewing a call will take. Length of games is a huge issue with many fans, although it doesn't bother me much. But, I'd rather not wait 5 minutes for an umpire to review a call every few innings.
Good move by MLB? Definitely.
A-Rod disputes a bad call on a homerun earlier this season.
DeLeah Caro
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For HR calls. Yes it's good
(Cincy)
Jamestown, OH
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I just wonder what this will lead to down the road.
Close play at home?
Fair or foul (not homer-run balls)?
safe/out at first if run scores on what would be the 3rd out?
I think the game could go 5 hours. (not good)
Foxy's Back
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LAME!
Steelercooz
St. Paul, MN
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WT.F is the point? Umpires are supposed to see this stuff. When I saw it on ESPN, I thought that it was a dumb move and games are going to last another hour
Dawgee
Detroit, MI
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