Close Call Sports and the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League

MLB Ejection 080: DJ Reyburn (2; Dale Sveum)

2013-06-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

HP Umpire DJ Reyburn ejected Cubs Manager Dale Sveum for arguing a safe call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Cubs-Cardinals game. With one on and two out, Cardinals batter Pete Kozma hit a 0-2 fastball

Sveum disputes Reyburn's ruling.

from Cubs pitcher Travis Wood on the ground to third baseman Luis Valbuena, who threw towards first base in an attempt to retire Kozma. The throw in the dirt was blocked by Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who then threw above catcher Welington Castillo's head and off of the backstop, where Castillo fielded the carom and threw to pitcher Wood, covering home, as Cardinals baserunner R3 Yadier Molina attempted to score. Replays indicate Wood's glove tagged Molina's upper thigh prior to Molina's left foot contacting the corner of home plate, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Cardinals were leading, 3-0. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 5-2.

This is DJ Reyburn (70)'s second ejection of 2013.
DJ Reyburn now has 3 points in the UEFL (5 Previous + 3 AAA - 1 Penalty + -4 Incorrect Call = -2).
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth now has 1 point in the UEFL's Crew Division (1 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 1).

This is the 80th ejection of 2013.
This is the 38th Manager ejection of 2013.
This is the Cubs' 3rd ejection of 2013, 2nd in the NL Central (PIT 6; CHC 3; MIL, STL 2; CIN 0).
This is Dale Sveum's 3rd ejection of 2013 and first since June 1 (Joe West; QOC = N).
This is DJ Reyburn's first ejection since May 14 (Bob Melvin; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6/17/13
Video: Incredibly sloppy play by Cubs capitalized by Molina slide into home plate, safe call and run (STL)

Split Screen Image

ESPN Baseball Quiz: Media Scores Low, Players Run Gamut

2013-06-18T21:32:00.001-07:00

ESPN distributed a baseball rules quiz to 20 players, one manager, four coaches and seven media analysts in which the sports giant and former high school, college and independent leagues umpire Rich Marazzi conceptualized 10 plays that require a thorough understanding of the rules book to answer correctly.

Because the test was in true-or-false format, one might expect the average to be five (50%). Au contraire.

The UEFL's score. Gil sez, "Really, Aaron Boone?"

First, the score results.

Players: 5.5/10 average. Of the 20 players who took the exam, one (Brad Ziegler of the Diamondbacks) received a perfect score, while David Ross of the Red Sox scored 9/10, JJ Putz (Arizona) 8/10 and Andrew Bailey (Boston) 8/10. Low on the players' totem pole were Adam Dunn, Jimmy Rollins, Greg Burke, Jeremy Guthrie, Elliot Johnson, Skip Schumaker and Josh Collmenter (all 4/10) and Michael Young and Sam Fuld (3/10).

Ziegler, by the way, was drafted in the 2002 MLB Draft, though elected to return to Missouri State University for his senior year. He joined the Philadelphia Phillies after graduating. See, kids? Always stay in school.

Manager/Coaches: 6.6/10 average. Manager John Farrell (Boston) led the group with a 9/10 score, followed by Bob Geren with 8/10. Tom Foley and Derek Shelton (both Tampa Bay) bottomed out at 5/10, which is still more than the media's average and almost as high as the players' average.

Media: 4.4/10. Though ESPN.com's Dave Schoenfield (7/10) and Jayson Stark (6/10) led the pack, Tim Kurkjian and Doug Glanville (5/10) were the only other members of the media group to reach the coaches' minimum score. At the bottom of the pack were Jerry Crasnick (3/10) and Aaron Boone, who, with a one-out-of-10 score, should probably stay out of the rules game.

Fans: 3.7/10. Predictably the lowest rules knowledge lies with those not actually in the game of baseball.

Click here to take the quiz, here for the ESPN article and the "read more" link below for the correct responses with UEFL analysis and rules citations.
For simplicity's sake—and because we're used to such a thing—each question has been re-written into the familiar R1, F1 format with just the nuts and bolts intact (none of this "in order to" or "because of" fluff).

1) With none out and R2, B1 hits a line drive in front of F5 at third that makes contact with R2 as he slides into third base on a steal attempt. Is R2 out?
39.7% of test-takers got this question correct.

2) With one out and R1, B1 hits a fly ball to deep center that falls to the ground untouched. R1, unsure if the ball will be caught, retreats towards first base where he and B1 make contact, resulting in B1 pushing R1 towards second base. Is B1 out?
49.2% of test-takers got this question correct.

3) With none out and R1, R2, B1 bunts the ball in the air on the infield, resulting in a triple play after the ball falls to the ground untouched. Is B1 out on the infield fly rule?
46.3% of test-takers got this question correct.

4) Team A bats out-of-order in the first inning, but Team B does not appeal. Can Team A correct the mistake so that the next time Team A bats, the order is consistent with the lineup card?
46.1% of test-takers got this question correct.

5) With one out and R3, B1 hits a fly ball along the left field foul wall, where F5 makes a leaping catch before falling into the stands. (a) Is B1 out and (b) Does R3 score?
33.3% of test-takers got this question correct.

6) With none out and R1, R2, R3, B1 hits a line drive that gets by the drawn-in infielder F3 and hits R1. Is the play legal and R1 not out?
25.7% of test-takers got this question correct.

7) With two out and R1, R2, R3, B1 hits a home run. R1 does not touch second base, Team B appeals and R1 is declared out. Do two runs still score?
52.7% of test-takers got this question correct.

8) With none out and R2, F1 balks in his delivery to B1, but throws a pitch regardless of PU (or U1)'s "balk" pronouncement. B1 hits a home run. Is the ball dead and the sequence replayed?
19.4% of test-takers got this question correct.

9) During a pitching change, Team A's Manager discusses the game situation with his new reliever, walks back to the dugout, crossing the foul line, and then attempts to return to the mound to give his pitcher further information and instruction. Is this allowed?
27.9% of test-takers got this question correct.

10) With none out and R3, B1 hits a ground ball to F4 and is retired 4-3, R3 scoring. PU, meanwhile, has called catcher's interference and sends R3 back to third and awards B1 first base. Team A's Manager informs PU he would like to take the result of the play (R3 scores, B1 out), but PU enforces the catcher's interference result instead (R3 back to third, B1 to first). Was the umpire correct?
25.7% of test takers got this question correct.

--

Answers:
1) True; a runner is out if touched by a fair ball in fair territory before the ball has touched or passed an infielder, not including the pitcher, or has touched the pitcher. Exception: If a runner is touching his base on an Infield Fly, he is not out. Rule 7.08(f)

2) False; a runner who has not been put out or who has not yet scored may assist another runner as long as he does not pass the preceding runner. Rules 7.08(h) [passing], 7.09(e) and (h) [put out/scored runner's interference and base coach's interference].

3) False; An Infield Fly does not include bunts nor line drives. Rules 6.05(e) and 2.00 [INFIELD FLY]

4) True; Sans appeal, the offense may legally correct a BOO error at any time. Rules 6.07(a), (c) and (d).

5) True; The ball is dead when the fielder enters dead ball territory and the runner gets one base. Rule 7.04(c).

6) True; Since the ball already passed an infielder, the runner is not out. Rule 7.08(f).

7) False; R1 was forced and put out at second; no runs may score on an inning-ending force. Rule 4.09(a).

8) False; Balk calls do not immediately kill play; if in the ensuing action, all runners including the batter-runner advance at least one base on the play, the balk call is ignored and the play stands. Rule 8.05 Exception.

9) False; Because the manager's purpose of his initial visit was to make a pitching change [his visit was to pitcher #1], he is allowed a first mound visit to his new pitcher [pitcher #2]. Rule 8.06(b).

10) False; A team may elect to take catcher's interference or decline the penalty and accept the play. However, if all runners and batter advance at least one base, the interference call is discarded. Rule 6.08(c)

So, how did you do? Be honest... and don't be an Aaron Boone...

MLB Ejections 077, 078: Hirschbeck (2), Reynolds (3)

2013-06-13T20:23:00.001-07:00

1B Umpire John Hirschbeck ejected Rockies pitcher Wilton Lopez and 3B Umpire Jim Reynolds ejected Rockies Pitching Coach Jim Wright for arguing a balk call by 2B Umpire Bob Davidson in the top of the 7th inning of the Nationals-Rockies game. With two out and one on and Nationals batter Steve Lombardozzi at

Davidson calls balk.

the plate, Nationals baserunner R2 Ian Desmond was awarded third base and subsequently home plate on two successive balk calls (the first by HP Umpire James Hoye) on Lopez for violations of OBR Rule 8.01 ("any natural movement associated with his delivery of the ball to the batter commits [the pitcher] to the pitch without alteration or interruption" [applicable to both Windup and Set Position]). Rule 8.05(a) declares such a motion violation with failure to deliver the pitch a balk. Prior to coming set, "the pitcher shall have one hand on his side; from this position he shall go to his set position as defined in Rule 8.01(b) without interruption and in one continuous motion." Replays indicate that in both instances, Lopez's actions violated Rule 8.01 and were correctly officiated as balks pursuant to Rule 8.05(a), the call was correct.* At the time of the ejection, the contest was tied, 3-3. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

This is John Hirschbeck (17)'s second ejection of 2013.
This is Jim Reynolds (77)'s third ejection of 2013.
John Hirschbeck now has 7 points in the UEFL (4 Previous + 2 MLB + 1 Correct Call [Crewmate] = 7).
Jim Reynolds now has 9 points in the UEFL (6 Previous + 2 MLB + 1 Correct Call [Crewmate] = 9).
Crew Chief John Hirschbeck now has 5 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (3 Previous + 2 Correct Call = 5).
*A Post-Inning Exemption has been applied.

These are the 77th and 78th ejections of 2013.
This is the 36th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Lopez's line was 1.0 IP, 1 ER.
This is the Rockies 1st/2nd ejection of 2013, T-4th in the NL West (LAD 8; ARI 7; SF 4; COL, SD 2).
This is Wilton Lopez's first career ejection.
This is Jim Wright's first career ejection.
This is John Hirschbeck's first ejection since May 5 (Bryce Harper; QOC = Y).
This is Jim Reynolds' first ejection since April 25 (Curt Young; QOC = U).

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Colorado Rockies, 6/13/13
Video: Summary of the two balk calls that led to the ejections and the unsporting behavior following (COL)
Video: Desmond is awarded third base on a balk called by HP Umpire James Hoye (WAS)
Video: Lopez's back-to-back balks results in a tie game, courtesy Balkin' Bob at second base (WAS)

Rumor: AAA Umpire Conroy May be Hired, Replacing Brian Runge

2013-06-09T23:17:00.000-07:00

Rumor: A call-up Triple-A umpire will replace Brian Runge on the MLB roster this season, which, if true, would mark the second Triple-A promotion to the full-time staff during the regular season since the NL and AL umpiring staffs merged and created the new era of unified MLB umpiring.* The situation is described as "fluid" yet potentially imminent. This is an unconfirmed rumor from a pro-ball source and is presented as such.

Brian Runge in 2011.

Runge, who has not worked an MLB regular season game dating back to August 30, 2012, worked a rehab assignment Triple-A New Orleans earlier this May; according to an anonymous source, Runge's attempt at the MiLB return was a failed venture, unlike similar assignments undertaken by crew chiefs Joe West and Gary Cederstrom, who both returned to MLB ball. An umpire will often work a minor league rehab assignment after significant injury or similar event that results in an extended absence from the sport.

Brian Gorman, for instance, who missed approximately 50 games to begin the 2013 MLB season, spent Memorial Day week in Triple-A Memphis before returning to the show. Rob Drake worked with Cederstrom in the Pacific Coast League before returning.

After surgery forced him to miss the entire 2006 and most of the 2007 major league seasons, MLB umpire Bill Hohn worked Tucson Sidewinders games for over a week before returning to the big league field. After being placed on umpiring's disabled list for the entire 2011 season, Hohn officially retired from baseball prior to the 2012 season, ending a NL/MLB career dating back to 1987; Todd Tichenor, who served as Hohn's de facto replacement during the 2011 season, was hired in his wake.

This past season, injuries claimed two umpires' professional on-field careers. After taking the brunt of foul balls resulting in concussions and neck injuries for years, crew chief Tim Tschida opted to retire upon hearing from multiple experts who told him "you're one hard foul tip away from quality-of-life issues." Tschida transitioned from professional umpiring to serving as a high school baseball assistant coach.

Meanwhile, Ed Rapuano retired to the position of MLB Umpire Evaluator due to similar injury concerns.

Though a midseason umpiring roster change is an exceptionally rare occurrence, the UEFL Rules Book specifically addresses the case of an umpire hire or release/retirement during the baseball season:

Rule 1-4-d: Umpire classification as AAA or MLB shall be determined during the pre-season draft period, and shall not be altered for scoring purposes during the regular or post-season unless... (2) the umpire is promoted to the MLB staff.

Rule 1-5-a: ...If a significant personnel modification (hiring, firing, release or retirement, except as exempted by Rule 1-4-d) occurs after the pre-season, no UEFL roster may be modified.

In other words, a Runge retirement or placement on the umpiring Disabled List would not allow for modification to the UEFL roster while a Conroy or other MiLB promotion would cause the retroactive assessment of MLB-level points for all prior ejections.

tmac's pre-season MiLB umpire power rankings placed Conroy in fourth position, behind fellow umpires Mike Estabrook, Lance Barrett and Jordan Baker. Conroy has been a regular big league fixture in 2013 and his 129 games worked in 2012 ranks third amongst call-ups that season (Mike Muchlinski [ranked #8], 132; DJ Reyburn [ranked #7], 130).

*After a blood clot developed as a complication from a knee injury and the ensuing surgery, Terry Craft missed a great part of the late 2001-early 2002 season. He retired in July 2006, prompting MLB to add Lance Barksdale to the Major League staff.

Catch vs Trap Confusion in New York Results in Force Out

2013-06-15T22:05:00.000-07:00

Base umpire Lances Barrett and Barksdale combined for a confusing catch/trap and safe/out sequence during the top of the 9th inning of the Cubs-Mets game. With none out and the bases loaded, Cubs batter Darwin Barney hit a sinking line drive to Mets center fielder Juan Lagares, who attempted to field the batted ball in the air for a fly out.

Controlled chaos at Citi causes conundrum.

Though emphatically ruled a trap by 1B Umpire Barrett, Lagares and shortstop Justin Turner attempted to double up Cubs baserunner R2 Ryan Sweeney, who himself attempted to return to second base prior to the throw. 2B Umpire Barksdale ruled Sweeney safe at second base on the return, though because of Barrett's trap call, baserunner R1 Greg Burke was out at second on the force play.

Mistaking Barrett's "safe" call of Sweeney for a "safe" call of Burke, SS Turner threw home for an apparent force out attempt—where no visual mechanic was indicated by HP Umpire Vic Carapazza—before another throw arrived in third baseman David Wright's glove, who stepped on third base for a second apparent force out attempt—where once again, no safe or out call was signaled by 3B Umpire Gary Cederstrom.

Finally, Cubs baserunner R3 Welington Castillo, informed by third base coach David Bell—who may or may not have physically assisted Castillo back to the base (which would be illegal; rules citation: OBR 7.09(h))—of the correct circumstance (that he was not forced out at home and was under no obligation to advance), returned to third base in advance of Wright's tardy tag, eliciting a "safe" call from Cederstrom.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. New York Mets, 6/15/13
Video: U1's trap call is not recognized by U2, resulting in an erroneous safe call rectified after the play (NYM)

MLB Ejection 070: Jordan Baker (3; Billy Butler)

2013-06-12T02:13:00.001-07:00

HP Umpire Jordan Baker ejected Royals DH Billy Butler for arguing a strike three call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Tigers-Royals game. With none out and one on, Butler took a 3-2 splitter from Tigers pitcher

Butler, Baker share a disagreement over location.

Jose Valverde for a called third strike. Replays indicate the strike three pitch was located belt high and off the inner edge of home plate (px -.0959), the call was incorrect. The call is now irrecusable (overturned to Unsportsmanlike-NEC by the UEFL Appeals Board 3-1-0). At the time of the ejection, the Tigers were leading, 3-2. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Jordan Baker (71)'s third ejection of 2013.
Jordan Baker now has 9 points in the UEFL (6 Previous + 3 AAA + 0 Irrecusable Call = 9).
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth now has 2 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (1 Previous + 1 Irrecusable Call = 2).

This is the 70th ejection of 2013.
This is the 32nd player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Butler was 0-3 in the contest.
This is the Royals' 3rd ejection of 2013, 2nd in the AL Central (CLE 5; KC 3; CWS, DET, MIN 1).
This is Billy Butler's 2nd ejection of 2013 and first since May 26 (Marty Foster; QOC = U).
This is Jordan Baker's first ejection since June 5 (Alan Trammell; QOC = U).

Wrap: Detroit Tigers vs. Kansas City Royals, 6/11/13
Video: Butler strikes out to begin the 9th and is ejected for arguing the call all the way to the dugout (KC)

MLB Ejection 079: Eric Cooper (1; Elvis Andrus)

2013-06-14T22:42:00.003-07:00

HP Umpire Eric Cooper ejected Rangers SS Elvis Andrus for arguing a strike three call in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Blue Jays-Rangers game. With one out and one on, Andrus took a 3-2 fastball from Blue Jays pitcher Mark Buehrle for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located knee high and off the inner edge

Andrus argues the K3 call and is heaved.

of home plate (px -1.136), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Blue Jays were leading, 5-0. The Blue Jays ultimately won the contest, 8-0.

This is Eric Cooper (56)'s first ejection of 2013.
Eric Cooper now has -2 points in the UEFL (0 + 2 MLB + -4 N = -2).
Crew Chief Jeff Kellogg now has 4 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (4 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 5).

This is the 79th ejection of 2013.
This is the 37th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Andrus was 0-3 in the contest with two SO.
This is the Rangers' 2nd ejection of 2013, 2nd in the AL West (OAK 5; TEX 2; LAA, SEA 1; HOU 0).
This is Elvis Andrus' 1st ejection of 2013 and first since July 26, 2011 (Andy Fletcher; QOC = N).
This is Eric Cooper's first ejection since June 14, 2012 (Ian Kinsler; QOC = N).

Wrap: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Texas Rangers, 6/14/13
Video: Andrus disputes Coop's K call, is tossed from the dugout arguing the four-seam fastball (TEX)

MLB Promotes Chris Conroy to Umpiring Staff

2013-06-14T16:08:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to new full-time MLB umpire Chris Conroy, officially promoted to the full time staff on Friday. Conroy fills the roster spot vacated by Brian Runge, who did not work a Major League contest this season after an attempted AAA rehab assignment in May.

First reported as a rumor by the UEFL on June 9, The move was confirmed in a Friday press release by Major League Baseball.

Conroy has been a regular big league fixture in 2013 and his 129 games worked in 2012 ranks third amongst call-ups that season (Mike Muchlinski [ranked #8], 132; DJ Reyburn [ranked #7], 130). Conroy has umpired professionally since 2000 and was promoted to Triple-A in 2006 before working his first spring training in 2009. A Massachusetts native, Conroy worked both the Pacific Coast and International Leagues (AAA) before his promotion to the full-time MLB staff.

MLB Ejections 071, 072, 073, 074, 075, 076: Clint Fagan (3-8)

2013-06-12T03:06:00.004-07:00

HP Umpire Clint Fagan ejected Diamondbacks P Ian Kennedy and Manager Kirk Gibson for throwing at Dodgers batter Zack Greinke and Diamondbacks Assistant Hitting Coach Turner Ward, Dodgers Batting Coach Mark McGwire, RF Yasiel Puig and P Ronald Belisario for fighting in the bottom of the 7th inning of the

Fight drifts in front of the 1B dugout, camera well.

Diamondbacks-Dodgers game. With one out and none on, Kennedy hit batter Greinke with a 0-1 fastball thrown up and inside resulting in a bench clearing incident. Prior to the Kennedy-Greinke HBP, Fagan warned both benches after D-Backs catcher Miguel Montero was hit by a 2-1 Greinke fastball in the top of the 7th inning, which followed a Kennedy HBP of Puig on a 1-2 count in the bottom of the 6th inning. Puig, who was hit in the head, was attended to by medical staff and remained in the game. At the time of the ejection, the contest was tied, 2-2. The Dodgers ultimately won the contest, 5-3.

These are Clint Fagan (82)'s third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth ejections of 2013.
Clint Fagan now has 28 points in the UEFL (10 Previous + 6*[3 AAA + 0 Irrecusable] = 28.
Crew Chief Brian Gorman now has 8 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (2 Previous + 6 Irrecusable Call = 8).

These are the 71st, 72nd, 73rd, 74th, 75th and 76th ejections of 2013.
These are the 33rd, 34th and 35th player ejections of 2013. Prior to ejection, Kennedy's line was 6.1 IP, 2 ER.
Prior to his ejection, Puig was 0-2 in the contest with one HBP and one R.
This is the 34th Manager ejection of 2013.
This is the Diamondbacks' 5-7th ejection of 2013, 2nd in the NL West (LAD 8; ARI 7; SF 4; SD 2; COL 0).
This is the Dodgers' 6-8th ejection of 2013, 1st in the NL West (LAD 8; ARI 7; SF 4; SD 2; COL 0).
This is Ian Kennedy's first career ejection.
This is Kirk Gibson's 2nd ejection of 2013 and first since April 20 (Chad Fairchild; QOC = Y).
This is Turner Ward's 1st ejection of 2013 and first since August 10, 1994 (Ted Barrett; QOC = U).
This is Mark McGwire's 1st ejection of 2013 and first since August 16, 2001 (Tim Timmons; QOC = U).
This is Yasiel Puig's first career ejection.
This is Ronald Belisario's 1st ejection of 2013 and first since August 28, 2010 (Marty Foster; QOC = U).
This is Clint Fagan's first ejection since June 2 (Yadier Molina, Mike Matheny; QOC = Y).
This is Brian Gorman's 2nd bench clearing brawl of 2013 (March 9, Canada-Mexico, World Baseball Classic).

Wrap: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, 6/11/13
Video: Kennedy drills Greinke up and in, resulting in a massive and empassioned bench clearing brawl (LAD)
Video: Compilation of the hit-by-pitches that resulted in the melee in front of the Arizona dugout (LAD)
Video: Montero is struck and benches clear, but umpires elect to only issue warnings (LAD)
Video: Puig is injured in the nose by a bean ball to the head in the sixth inning, but stays in the game (LAD)
Video: After the brawl, Greinke slides hard into second base in an attempt to break up a double play (LAD)
Video: Mattingly discusses the fight during his post-game presser / Gibson and Kennedy give their thoughts
Related Video: In the 4th, umpires lose track of the count, giving Kennedy 4 strikes with which to K Puig (ARI)

MLB Ejections 068, 069: Wally Bell (1, 2; Bochy, Kontos)

2013-06-12T01:58:00.000-07:00

HP Umpire Wally Bell ejected Giants P George Kontos & Manger Bruce Bochy for throwing at Pirates batter Andrew McCutchen in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Giants-Pirates game. With one out and one on, and

Bell shows Kontos the door.

after warnings were previously issued to Starling Marte earlier in the inning, Kontos hit McCutchen with a 2-0 fastball. At the time of the ejection, the Pirates were leading, 8-2. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 8-2.

These are Wally Bell (35)'s first and second ejections of 2013.
Wally Bell now has 4 points in the UEFL (0 + 2*[2 MLB + 0 U] = 4).
Crew Chief Tim McClelland now has 3 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (1 Previous + 2 Irrecusable Call = 3).

These are the 68th and 69th ejections of 2013.
This is the 31st player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Kontos' line was 1.1 IP, 3 ER, 1 HR.
This is the Giants' 3rd/4th ejection of 2013, T-2nd in the NL West (LAD 5; ARI, SF 4; SD 2; COL 0).
This is George Kontos' first career ejection.
This is Bruce Bochy's 3rd ejection of 2013 and first since May 25 (Alfonso Marquez; QOC = N).
This is Wally Bell's first ejection since August 23, 2012 (Scott Diamond/Ron Gardenhire; QOC = U).

Wrap: San Francisco Giants vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6/11/13
Video: Kontos hits McCutchen after a game of the HBP and is tossed along with skipper Bochy (PIT)
Video: Marco Scutaro hit by a Tony Watson fastball on the hands and is forced to leave the game (SF)
Video: Compilation of all hit batsmen and inside heaters that led to Kontos and Bochy's ejections (PIT)

Bench Clearing in Tampa Results in Warnings not Ejections

2013-06-11T01:31:00.000-07:00

When benches cleared after a Red Sox-Rays HBP, ejections were withheld in favor of warnings.

It all started in the first inning, with a leadoff home run by Rays right fielder Matt Joyce off of Red Sox pitcher John Lackey that, at the time, narrowed the Sox' lead to a 6-1 Rays deficit.

In the bottom of the second, Joyce had the green light on a 3-0 count and turned on the ensuing fastball, sending a foul ball deep into the right field corner bleachers. After a 3-1 groundout to end the frame, Lackey engaged Joyce in confrontation, apparently perturbed at Joyce's disposal of his bat following the foul. Lackey believed Joyce flipped the bat as if to show up the hurler on a home run, while Joyce claimed he dropped the bat in disappointment the ball had hooked foul.

Brawl that wasn't: Benches clear, but no punches.

In the sixth, with two out, none on and a 0-1 count, Lackey hit Joyce with an up-and-in 90-mph fastball, sending Joyce and Lackey into an immediate confrontation while Boston catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia stepped in between the two, putting his hands (and mitt) on Joyce, who shoved back, inciting the benches to clear as Lackey walked into the fray.

After some animated pushing and shoving by both teams, plate umpire Tom Hallion and crewmates Phil Cuzzi, Chris Guccione and Ron Kulpa conversed and elected to issue warnings in lieu of ejecting any personnel from either team. After a Ben Zobrist double, Lackey was lifted from the game amidst a chorus of Tropicana Field boos.

Rule 8.02(d) governs the case of a pitcher intentionally throwing at a batter and obliges the umpire to:

1. Expel the pitcher, or the manager and the pitcher, from the game, or
2. Warn the pitcher and the manager of both teams that another such pitch will result in the immediate expulsion of that pitcher (or a replacement) and the manager.

If, in the umpire's judgment, circumstances warrant, both teams may be officially "warned" prior to the game or at any time during the game.

In regards to a fight situation, each umpire has the authority to disqualify team uniformed personnel for "objecting to decisions or for unsportsmanlike conduct or language" [OBR Rule 9.01(d)].

Video: A hit-by-pitch, interpreted as intentional by Tampa Bay, results in warnings but no ejections (TB)
Video: MLB Network analyzes Joyce's at-bats against Lackey leading to the bench-clearing incident (MLB)

MLB Ejection 067: Gary Darling (2; Jose Bautista)

2013-06-09T13:25:00.001-07:00

HP Umpire Gary Darling ejected Blue Jays RF Jose Bautista for arguing a strike call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Rangers-Blue Jays game. With one out and two on, Bautista took a 0-0 slider from Rangers

Bautista argues pitch #1, shown as a strike.

pitcher Joe Nathan for a called first strike and was ejected after striking out swinging on a 0-2 breaking ball. Replays indicate the strike one pitch was located knee-high and over the outer half of home plate (pz 1.738; sz_bot 1.500), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Rangers were leading, 6-4. The Rangers ultimately won the contest, 6-4.

This is Gary Darling (37)'s second ejection of 2013.
Gary Darling now has 4 points in the UEFL (0 + 2 MLB + 2 Y = 4).
Crew Chief Gary Darling now has 1 point in the UEFL's Crew Division (0 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 1).

This is the 67th ejection of 2013.
This is the 30th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Bautista was 3-4 in the contest.
This is the Blue Jays' 6th ejection of 2013, 1st in the AL East (TOR 6; TB 4; BAL, BOS, NYY 1).
This is Jose Bautista's 1st ejection of 2013 and first since August 26, 2011 (Bill Welke; QOC = Y).
This is Gary Darling's first ejection since April 24 (Ron Roenicke; QOC = N).

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 6/9/13
Video: After taking a called strike to start his at bat, Bautista strikes out and complains to Darling (TOR)
Video: Jays Manager John Gibbons remarks on Bautista's tantrum, saying "he thought that pitch was down."

MLB Ejection 066: Andy Fletcher (3; Terry Francona)

2013-06-08T17:32:00.001-07:00

HP Umpire Andy Fletcher ejected Indians Manager Terry Francona for arguing a strike three call in the top of the 8th inning of the Indians-Tigers game. With two out and none on, Indians batter Michael Brantley took a

Francona and Fletcher feud in the 8th.

1-2 slider from Tigers pitcher Phil Coke for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located midpoint-high and over the outer half of home plate (pz 3.227; sz_top 3.430), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Tigers were leading, 6-4. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 6-4.

This is Andy Fletcher (49)'s third ejection of 2013.
Andy Fletcher now has 12 points in the UEFL (8 + 4 Y = 12).
Crew Chief Joe West now has 3 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (2 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 3).

This is the 66th ejection of 2013.

This is the 32nd Manager ejection of 2013.
This is the Indians' 5th ejection of 2013, 1st in the AL Central (CLE 5; KC 2; CWS, DET, MIN 1).
This is Terry Francona's 2nd ejection of 2013, first since June 2 (Bill Welke; QOC = N).
This is Andy Fletcher's first ejection since June 4 (Mike Carp; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Detroit Tigers, 6/8/13
Video: After inning's end, Swisher and Fletcher jaw, interrupted by Francona, who takes the toss (CLE)

MiLB Ejection of the Week: Adam Hamari (2, 3, 4, 5)

2013-06-08T11:40:00.003-07:00

MiLB Intent HBP: HP Umpire Adam Hamari ejected PawSox P Allen Webster & M Gary DiSarcina for throwing at Knights batter Steve Tolleson, 1B Drew Sutton for arguing the Webster ejection (Unsportsmanlike-NEC) in the top of the 4th inning and Pitching Coach Rich Saveur for arguing a non-ejection for throwing at

DiSarcina contests the pitch was not intentional.

(Unsportsmanlike-NEC) in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Knights-Red Sox game. After a lead-off home run in the top of the 2nd inning, Webster hit Knights batter Josh Phegley with a pitch, followed two batters later with a Seth Loman hit by pitch, resulting in warnings. In the 4th, with none out and one on as a result of a Loman single, Webster hit Steve Tolleson with a pitch, resulting in Webster and Manager DiSarcina's ejections and first baseman Drew Sutton's ejection for throwing his glove in reaction to the ejection call. In the 9th, with one out and none on, Knights pitcher Daniel Moskos walked Red Sox batter Brock Holt during an at bat that featured an inside ball; Saveur was ejected arguing Hamari's ejection no-call. At the time of the Bailey/DiSarcina/Sutton ejections, the Knights were leading, 5-2. At the time of the Saveur ejection, the Knight led, 10-3. The Knights ultimately won the contest, 10-5.

These are Adam Hamari's second, third, fourth and fifth ejections of the 2013 Triple-A IL season.
Credit as always due to Russ for spotting our AAA umpire ejection activity.

These are DiSarcina and Webster's second ejections as a duo for throwing at after warning in the past month:
PU Jeff Gosney ejected DiSarcina & Webster for the same reason (throwing at after warn) on May 24.
DiSarcina & P Pedro Beato were ejected for the same reason (throwing at) on May 21.

Wrap: Charlotte Knights vs. Pawtucket Red Sox (MiLB AAA International League), 6/6/13
Video: Webster's HBP of Tolleson, ruled intentional, results in his & DiSarcina's ejections after warnings

The Retouch Rule 7.08(d): A Game of Acting and Knowing

2013-06-07T01:29:00.000-07:00

When the umpires suffered a week of bad press earlier this season, Vin Scully provided a much-needed reprieve, so we thought we'd see what Scully had to offer tonight after some hotly contested ejections by Clint Fagan, Dan Iassogna and the controversial gum-throwing Jordan Baker. Fortunately, Vinny didn't disappoint.

Scully—the man that UEFL'ers in 2011 voted baseball's best broadcaster—paired up with the ever-affable CB Bucknor and colleague Rick Monday to educate fans about the finer points of the "retouch rule."

Rule 2.00 specifies a retouch is the "act of a runner in returning to a base as legally required."
Rule 7.02, which establishes that a runner shall run the bases in order, also orders runners to retouch all bases in reverse order if forced to return to a base.
Finally, Rule 7.08(d) requires a runner to "retouch his base after a fair or foul ball is legally caught before he, or his base, is tagged by a fielder." If he fails to do so, the defensive team may appeal for an out.

Bucknor praised after call at 2nd.

With none out and one on in the top of the 8th inning of the Braves-Dodgers game, Braves batter Andrelton Simmons hit a fly ball to Dodgers center fielder Andre Ethier as baserunner R1 Jordan Schafer ran with the pitch before returning to first base. Unfortunately for Schafer, the adept CB Bucknor and Dodgers second baseman Skip Schumaker saw a violation of Rules 2.00 RETOUCH, 7.02 and 7.08(d) and, after appeal, Schafer was called out to complete the double play.

Replays indicate Schafer slid headfirst into second base, rounded and took two steps beyond second base towards third and then, realizing Ethier was about to catch the baseball, retreated to first base without first retouching second base, the out call on appeal was correct.

And so was Scully, who said:

Let's take a look and see. There's Schafer going into second, the Dodgers trying to double team him... Oh, he rounded second, you see that? He went in and actually took two steps beyond second base and then didn't touch second base going back to first, so that was a great call by the umpires, indeed.

Unfortunately, the video ends before Scully's recap of the play following the mid-inning commercial break:

Schafer lost where the ball was and forgot to retouch second on his way back to first... He said "I touched the bag," but he only touched it once; he should have touched it twice. Heads up play by Punto, Schumaker and the Dodgers. Plus, a very, very good call by CB Bucknor, the umpire at second base. They always get boo'd at, but boy that was a great call by the umpire to spot it.

Meanwhile, Braves broadcaster Chip Caray had a different take: "They're going to say he didn't retag. They're going to call Schafer out for not retagging, you see he touched it, he slid and stood back up and stepped right back on the bag and came back to first. Now Dale Scott saying, 'you overslid and didn't retouch. You have to retouch the bag.'"

After viewing the tape, Caray admitted there was no retouch, crediting Punto-Schumaker with a "great play."

Dodgers radio analyst Rick Monday spotted it immediately: "The Dodgers need to make the appeal to second base, he went past the bag and didn't retouch it on the way back—he's out!"

In closing, Monday said what we all are constantly thinking: "I'm still amazed at how many players play this game and do not know the rules—and I'm talking about basic rules... Both Schumaker and Punto should get an award for supporting cast...I'm sorry, this is the major leagues—that's basic. I'm amazed. Again, Schafer did not know where the ball was. Once he got up, he turned and looked at his third base coach but took a step toward third base—well, that's in the interpretation, an 'advance,' but even if you overslide the bag, you have to come back and hit it on the way back." Added Charlie Steiner, "you have to retouch."

Video: Schafer fails to retouch 2nd while running in reverse order, LA appeals and CB bangs the out (LAD)
[Context: On Monday, the Dodgers middle infield deked Padres R1 Chris Denorfia on a fly ball to deep right field in the 9th, allowing RF Yasiel Puig to complete a game-ending double play, as called by HP Umpire Mark Wegner after making sure U2 Tim Timmons was not also making a call]

Injury: John Hirschbeck Struck in Wrist, Leaves for X-Rays

2013-06-05T12:34:00.002-07:00

Plate umpire John Hirschbeck left the Marlins-Phillies game due to injury after being struck in the right wrist by a direct shot from Marlins pitcher AJ Ramos. With none out and none on in the bottom of the 7th inning,

Hirschbeck hit square in the wrist, leaves game.

Phillies batter Freddy Galvis attempted to check his swing on a 1-0 fastball, which zipped past Marlins catcher Miguel Olivo and struck Hirschbeck flush in the wrist. After being attended to by the Phillies training staff, Hirschbeck was forced to leave the game as 2B Umpire Jim Reynolds retreated to the umpires' dressing room to suit up and take over behind the plate.

Word on Hirschbeck's condition or x-ray results following the injury were not immediately available.

Wrap: Miami Marlins vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 6/5/13
Video: Hirschbeck hit by pitch, leaves game (http://wapc.mlb.com/play/content_id=27761029)

MLB Ejection 065: Tim Timmons (4; Bud Black)

2013-06-05T03:21:00.001-07:00

1B Umpire Tim Timmons ejected Padres Manager Bud Black for arguing an out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Padres-Dodgers game. With one out and one on, Padres batter Chris Denorfia hit a 1-0 cutter

Timmons and Black share a difference of opinion.

from Dodgers pitcher Kenley Jansen on the ground to shortstop Hanley Ramirez, who threw to second baseman Mark Ellis to retire baserunner R1 Alexi Amarista at second base and onto first baseman Adrian Gonzalez as Denorfia arrived at first base. Replays indicate Gonzalez fielded the throw after to Denorfia's right foot first contacted the base, the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Dodgers were leading, 9-7. The Dodgers ultimately won the contest, 9-7.

This is Tim Timmons (95)'s fourth ejection of 2013.
Tim Timmons now has 4 points in the UEFL (6 Previous + 2 MLB + -4 Incorrect Call = 4).
Crew Chief Mike Winters now has 4 points in the Crew Division (4 Previous + 0 Incorrect Call = 4).

This is the 65th ejection of 2013.
This is the 31st Manager ejection of 2013.
This the Padres' 2nd ejection of 2013, T-3rd in the NL West (LAD 5; ARI 4; SD, SF 2; COL 0).
This is Bud Black's first ejection since July 5, 2012 (Brian Knight; QOC = N).
This is Tim Timmons' first ejection since April 26 (Sanchez/Hurdle/Craig; QOC = U).

Wrap: San Diego Padres vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, 6/4/13
Video: Black argues the back-end of a double play to end the 8th and is ejected in the process (SD)

Fake-to-Third: Reds Take Lead on First Regular Season Balk

2013-06-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

The fake-to-third balk has finally happened in an MLB game at a high-stakes time. In a textbook situation for the move—one out, runners on first and third base—Rockies pitcher Edgmer Escalona stepped towards third

C Torrealba questions not the ump, but his pitcher

base and feigned a throw before wheeling to check the runner back to first, a move than in 2012 would have drawn no attention.

Instead, while broadcaster Thom Brenneman knowingly said, "you're not allowed to do that anymore," home plate umpire Gary Cederstrom uttered "that's a balk!" and calmly pointed to the infraction, signaling baserunner R3 Xavier Paul in to score. Even Rockies catcher Yorvit Torrealba gestured and yelled toward his pitcher, appearing quite cognizant of the new rule. Back on TV, Reds color commentator Chris Welsh provided his analysis of the play, saying what we were all thinking:

Well, it took longer into the season than I thought to finally see somebody who forgot that they changed the rule, no one told Edgmer Escalona. Up until this year, this move was permitted, it was not a balk. You fake to third, throw to first or not throw to first, but they took that rule off the books.

In Jan., fake-to-3rd was outlawed in part to speed up games (Popular Fake to 3rd Pickoff Move now Illegal).

Though the Escalona balk gave the Reds a 4-3 lead, the Colorado Rockies ultimately won the contest, 5-4.

Video: Escalona balks in violation of the newly revised OBR Rule 8.05(b) [it is a balk when—] (CIN)

MLB Ejection 064: Jordan Baker (1; Alan Trammell)

2013-06-05T02:52:00.000-07:00

3B Umpire Jordan Baker ejected Arizona Diamondbacks Bench Coach Alan Trammell for arguing a safe call (Unsportsmanlike-NEC; repeat visit) in the bottom of the 6th inning of the Diamondbacks-Cardinals game.

Baker and a cameo by Angel's snapback cap.

With two out and one on, Cardinals batter Yadier Molina took a 3-0 fastball from D-Backs pitcher Tyler Skaggs as Cardinals baserunner R2 Carlos Beltran attempted to steal third base as Diamondbacks catcher Miguel Montero attempted to throw him out. Replays indicate D-Backs third baseman Martin Prado caught the ball and appeared to tag Beltran's right foot with his glove prior to Beltran arriving at third; because Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson argued the call at the time of the event, Trammell's ejection during a pitching change falls under the classification of USC-NEC - no exemption applies, the call was irrecusable.* At the time of the ejection, the Diamondbacks were leading, 6-5. The Diamondbacks ultimately won the contest, 7-6.

This is Jordan Baker (71)'s second ejection of 2013.
Jordan Baker now has 6 points in the UEFL (3 + 3 AAA + 0 Irrecusable Call = 6).
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth now has 1 point in the Crew Division (0 Previous + 1 Irrecusable Call = 1).
*UEFL Rule 6-2-b-5-b specifies irrecusability for teams engaging in two+ visits concerning the same play.

This is the 64th ejection of 2013.
This the Diamondbacks' 4th ejection of 2013, 2nd in the NL West (LAD 5; ARI 4; SF 2; SD 1; COL 0).
This is Alan Trammell's first ejection since September 20, 2005 (Lance Barksdale; QOC = U).
This is Jordan Baker's first ejection since April 9 (Carlos Carrasco; QOC = U).

Wrap: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6/5/13
Video: Baker ejects Trammell for arguing a safe call at third base that preceded a Cardinals run (ARI)

MLB Ejection 063: Andy Fletcher (2; Mike Carp)

2013-06-05T02:23:00.001-07:00

HP Umpire Andy Fletcher ejected Red Sox 1B Mike Carp for arguing a strike three call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Rangers-Red Sox game. With none out and one on, Carp took a 1-2

Strike three to Carp results in ejection.

changeup from Rangers pitcher David Murphy for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located midpoint high and over the outer half of home plate (sz_top 3.430 pz 3.497; 0.067 / MoE 0.083), the call was correct.* At the time of the ejection, the Red Sox were leading, 17-5. The Red Sox ultimately won the contest, 17-5.

This is Andy Fletcher (49)'s 2nd ejection of 2013.
Andy Fletcher now has 8 points in the UEFL (4 + 2 MLB + 2 Y = 8).
Crew Chief Joe West now has 2 points in the Crew Division (1+1=2).
*UEFL Rule 6-2-b-2 (Miller Rule) and the physics of a breaking ball falling from the front of home plate specify this was a correct call.
Drjjulius wins UEFL Prop Bet 2013-08, Date of first Red Sox ejection (response: June 1, 3 days).

This is the 63rd ejection of 2013.
This is the 29th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Carp was 3-4 in the contest.
This the Red Sox's 1st ejection of 2013, T-3rd in the AL East (TOR 5; TB 4; BAL, BOS, NYY 1).
This is Mike Carp's first career ejection.
This is Andy Fletcher's first ejection since April 13 (Bob Melvin; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Texas Rangers vs. Boston Red Sox, 6/4/13
Video: After being called out on strikes in a Sox blowout, Carp is tossed out of the ballgame (BOS)

MLB Ejection 062: Tony Randazzo (1; Mike Aviles)

2013-06-05T01:58:00.004-07:00

HP Umpire Tony Randazzo ejected Indians shortstop Mike Aviles arguing a called foul ball after his at-bat following the top of the 9th inning of the Indians-Yankees game. With two out and none on, Aviles hit a

Aviles complains post-game and is dismissed.

1-1 cutter from Yankees closer Mariano Rivera to right fielder Ichiro Suzuki for the final out of the ballgame. Randazzo previously ruled Aviles fouled off the 0-0 pitch on a check swing; because this ejection occurred after the at-bat to end the game, pursuant to UEFL Rule 6-5-c, the call was irrecusable.* At the time of the ejection, the Yankees had won the contest, 4-3.

This is Tony Randazzo (11)'s 1st ejection of 2013.
Tony Randazzo now has 2 points in the UEFL (0 Previous + 2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable Call = 2).
Crew Chief Brian Gorman now has 2 points in the Crew Division (1 Previous + 1 Irrecusable Call = 2).
*UEFL Rule 6-5-c: "Quality of Correctness only applies to the call made directly prior to ejection, or, if balls/called strikes during a single at-bat, any pitch called during that at bat, provided that the call was against the ejected person (or his team) and this call realistically resulted in a different outcome of the at-bat."

This is the 62nd ejection of 2013.
This is the 28th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Aviles was 1-4 in the contest.
This the Indians' 4th ejection of 2013, 1st in the AL Central (CLE 4; KC 2; CWS, DET, MIN 1).
This is Mike Aviles' first ejection since May 17, 2012 (Dan Bellino; QOC = Y).
This is Tony Randazzo's first ejection since September 4, 2012 (Joe Girardi; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. New York Yankees, 6/4/13
Video: Aviles and Manager Terry Francona argue the foul ball call to start the at-bat (CLE)
Video: Aviles has parting shot for Randazzo while exiting the field and is punished with ejection (NYY)

MLB Ejection 061: Dale Scott (1; Mark Parent)

2013-06-04T13:02:00.002-07:00

HP Umpire Dale Scott ejected White Sox Bench Coach Mark Parent for arguing a strike two in the top of the 7th inning of the White Sox-Mariners game. With one out and one on, White Sox batter Jeff Keppinger took a fastball from Mariners pitcher Yoervis Medina for a called second strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located at the hollow of the knee and over the outer half of home plate (sz_bot 1.5, pz 1.575), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Mariners led, 4-1. The Mariners ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

Parent objects over Mgr Robin Ventura

This is Dale Scott (5)'s 1st ejection of 2013.
Dale Scott now has 4 points in the UEFL (0 + 2 MLB + 2 Y = 4).
Crew Chief Dale Scott now has 3 points in the Crew Division (2 Previous + 1 Correct Call = 3).

This is the 61st ejection of 2013.
This the White Sox's 1st ejection of 2013, T-3rd in the AL Central (CLE 3; KC 2; CWS, DET, MIN 1).
This is Mark Parent's first ejection since September 8, 2012 (Mark Carlson; QOC = N).
This is Dale Scott's first ejection since July 14, 2012 (Terry Collins; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Chicago White Sox vs. Seattle Mariners, 6/3/13 [Video N/A]

Injury: Kerwin Danley Struck in Mask, Leaves Game

2013-06-04T11:59:00.004-07:00

Umpire Kerwin Danley took a bouncing ball to the mask with one out in the bottom of the first inning of Monday night's Rockies-Reds game. Reds batter Zack Cozart took a 0-2 ball in the dirt from Rockies pitcher Tyler Chatwood, the baseball caroming off catcher Wilin Rosario's glove and off Danley's mask. Though Danley remained in the game immediately following the injury delay, he left in the top of the third inning as Lance Barksdale donned the gear and took over behind home plate. Danley has suffered several notable injuries during his MLB career.

Danley was hit in the head Monday night.

In 2008, Danley was hit square in the face and knocked unconscious by a 96-mph Brad Penny fastball at Dodger Stadium; an ambulance was brought onto the field in order to transport Danley to a local hospital.
In 2009, Danley took a broken bat from Hank Blalock to the head in Texas, requiring a stretcher to be brought onto the field. After the game, was diagnosed with a mild concussion.
In 2012, Danley was struck in the groin by a directly pitched ball in the dirt, remaining in the game.
In May 2013, Danley sustained a concussion.

Because Danley has suffered multiple traumatic brain injuries in the past, he is more susceptible to concussion, though in regards to the present, he is listed as day-to-day.

MLB Ejections 059, 060: Dan Iassogna (2, 3; Martin, Hurdle)

2013-06-03T18:19:00.001-07:00

HP Umpire Dan Iassogna ejected Pirates C Russell Martin and Manager Clint Hurdle for arguing a ball call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Pirates-Braves game. With two out and one on, Braves batter Kris Medlen

Iassogna and Hurdle dispute Martin's ejection.

took a 1-0 sinker from Pirates pitcher AJ Burnett for a called second ball. Replays indicate all balls called in the half inning, including the Medlen ball two call (px 0.776) were properly officiated (see note regarding Kulpa Rule, below), the call was correct.* At the time of the ejection, the Braves were leading, 2-1. The Braves ultimately won the contest, 7-2.

These are Dan Iassogna (58)'s 2nd and 3rd ejections of 2013.
Dan Iassogna now has 11 points in the UEFL (3 Previous + 2*[2 MLB + 2 Correct Call] = 11).

Crew Chief Gerry Davis now has 5 points in the Crew Division (3 Previous + 2*[1 Correct] = 5).
*Pursuant to UEFL Rule 6-2-b-1 (Kulpa Rule), QOC for a px value greater than 0.768, with appropriate pz valuation, called a strike on the field, "shall routinely reflect the call on the field as correct."

These are the 59th and 60th ejections of 2013.
This is the 27th player ejection of 2013. Prior to his ejection, Martin was 0-2 in the contest with 1 K.

This is the 30th Manager ejection of 2013.

This the Pirates' 5th/6th ejection of 2013, 1st in the NL Central (PIT 6; CHC, MIL, STL 2; CIN 0).

This is Russell Martin's first ejection since March 24 (Chad Fairchild; QOC = U).

This is Clint Hurdle's first ejection since May 19 (CB Bucknor; QOC = Y).

This is Dan Iassogna's first ejection since April 25 (Charlie Manuel; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Atlanta Braves, 6/3/13

Video: Martin, called out on strikes in top 4, is tossed arguing zone, consecutive ball calls, in bot 4 (PIT)

MiLB AAA Recap: Late May, Early June & Ejection of Week

2013-06-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

Since May 15, MiLB AAA has experienced the following ejections (with the argument or reason for ejection in parentheses), with a great deal of reporting from resident Triple-A scout Russ:

¤ 1B Umpire Kellen Levy ejected Salt Lake Bees Mgr Keith Johnson (foul-to-HBP), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Joel Hospodka ejected Nashville Sounds Pitching Coach Fred Dabney (balls/strikes), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Tripp Gibson ejected Iowa Cubs Manager Marty Pevey (called third strike), PCL.
¤ 1B Umpire Carlos Torres ejected Charlotte Knights Manager Joel Skinner (unsportsmanlike-NEC), IL.
¤ HP Umpire Ben May ejected Buffalo Bisons Manager Marty Brown (HBP/foul ball), IL.
¤ HP Umpire Mike Muchlinski ejected Albuquerque Isotopes RF Alex Castellanos (called third strike), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Will Little ejected PawSox P Pedro Beato & M Gary DiSarcina (throwing at), IL
¤ HP Umpire Will Little ejected Pawtucket Red Sox 1B Brandon Snyder (arguing previous ejection), IL.
¤ 1B Umpire Brad Myers ejected Gwinnett Braves 2B Tyler Patornicky (balls/strikes), IL.
¤ HP Umpire Jeff Gosney ejected PawSox P Allen Webster & M Gary DiSarcina (throwing at after warn), IL.
¤ HP Umpire Toby Basner ejected Indianapolis Indians LF Felix Pie (charged opp dugout with bat), IL.
¤ 1B Umpire Spencer Flynn ejected Tuscon Padres RF Daniel Robertson (appeal play out call), PCL.
¤ 3B Umpire Ben May ejected Columbus Clippers Manager Chris Tremie (check swing call), IL.
¤ 1B Umpire Max Guyll ejected Lehigh Valley IronPigs CF Jermaine Mitchell (out [slammed helmet]), IL.
¤ HP Umpire Tripp Gibson ejected Reno Aces M Brett Butler & CF Tony Campana (balls/strikes), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Tripp Gibson ejected Reno Aces H-Coach Greg Gross (appeal play safe call), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Scott Mahoney ejected Las Vegas 51s bench player Landon Powell (Unsportsmanlike), PCL.
¤ HP Umpire Gerard Ascani ejected Memphis Redbirds LF Ryan Jackson (check swing K), IL.

* IL = International League / PCL = Pacific Coast League *

MiLB Ejection of Week (Umpire Kelvin Bultron / Buffalo Bisons Manager Marty Brown)

Bultron ejects Brown for arguing no-call.

3B Umpire Kelvin Bultron ejected Buffalo Bisons Manager Marty Brown for arguing an interference no-call in the bottom of the 2nd inning of the Bisons-Tides game. With one out and one on, Norfolk batter Xavier Avery grounded to second baseman Jim Negrych, resulting in a single. Replays indicate baserunner R1 Trayvon Robinson appeared to make contact with Negrych and, in doing so, interfered with Negrych's ability to field a batted ball, constituting interference pursuant to OBR Rule 7.09(j) ["he fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball"]. At the time of the ejection, the contest was tied, 1-1. The Bisons ultimately won the contest, 7-4.

Wrap: Buffalo Bisons vs. Norfolk Tides (MiLB AAA International League), 6/2/13
Video: Ejected, Brown stages sit-in on the infield, throws equipment, helmet in protest