I was never a big proponent of using video replay to determine calls in sport. But, after a few instances in this year's Stanley Cup playoffs, I think i'm having a change of opinion.
There can be no denying the fact that technology has really put officiating in all sports under a very powerful microscope. So, when the replay shows it, and then the umpire admits his mistake after, what should be done?
Wednesday night, Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga was about to enter the record book with a pefect game. The last Cleveland batter was awarded a single, even though he was clearly out. The umpire later confessed his mistake.
Enter baseball commissioner Bud Selig. He has the ''ultimate power to make decisions in the best interests of the game.'' The play in the game turned out not to have an impact on the outcome, only whether the feat of a throwing a perfect game would be recognized. If the game had continued, and Cleveland came back to win, then there really isn't a debate. That wasn't the case Wednesday night. Selig has the power to over-turn the umpire's decision, and could do so without affecting the result.
He has chosen not to, in spite of the fact the baseball world all knows what happened, and knows a huge mistake was made. The popularity of the game has flourished under Selig's watch, but allowing this to happen in my opinion could tarnish the Major League's integrity. It's true the umpire made a mistake, mistakes happen. But in my opinion, Bud Selig really blew the call.
