Galarraga, of the Detroit Tigers, retired the first 26 Cleveland Indians, needing just one out for the perfect game. Umpire Jim Joyce called a runner safe at first base, but replays showed he was clearly out, which means Galarraga would’ve had a perfect game.
The next batter grounded out, creating a unique situation. If the call were right, the game would’ve ended. Nothing else changed, because the next batter was out. It’s an easy fix to overturn the missed call and give Galarraga what he deserves.
This situation was discussed over and over. Of course, changing calls shouldn’t become common. And, of course, it wouldn’t work in most situations.
But this is a different story. It’s taking away one more batter and ending the game when it should have — when we know it did, actually.
The idea applies to so few situations, because most missed calls happen early enough in the game that it’s unfair to assume what would’ve otherwise happened. In this case, we know. The game would’ve been over. The Indians would have no complaint, because they lost on the very next play.
Commissioner Bud Selig won’t do that. But, in this case, one of the few where it could apply, the call should be overturned.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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