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If the up would admit that it was his laziness to not bother moving to the dugout side of first base - to get a proper view of the most critical play of an unbelievable game, then I would say he could be labeled as 'classy'. But if you watch the video, he perhaps moves 6" to 1' - still in a bad position to see the position of the runner's foot relative to throw.

What was interesting is that later last night, in the Cards/Reds game, a very similar play took place and that 1st base ump hustled himself into the proper position to make the call, on the foul side of the line, looking down the 1st-2nd baseline.

Not seeing a play because it was impossible to see it is one thing - that can be seen as a mistake. Not bothering to move into position is an entirely different matter and involved a conscious decision on the part of the ump as the play unfolded. I've seen plenty of Little League umpires do more to get themselves into position than this guy did on that most important out of the entire perfect game.



Agree with everything you've mentioned. The umpire today told Galarraga that he was sorry and that he cost him. He told him that he had no excuses and he simply didn't know what to say. Commissioner is now having the committee (one of which coach Jim Leland is on), take a look at instant replay (presumably getting into this year yet) and he's not certain what he'll do about altering the outcome of the decision. Too bad really. Umpire was in tears today -- Tigers and all involved -- a very class act. I'm proud my grandkids play and watch the games here in Michigan.

Ike