The Oakland Athletics resumed their winning ways on Monday in Tampa Bay, beating the Rays in a tightly-contested 2-1 ballgame, but the club had to finish the contest without manager Bob Melvin.
He was ejected following a replay review from the umpires, in which Melvin contended that shortstop Elvin Andrus was safe at home plate. Melvin lost the challenge, though the consensus among observers was that Andrus was safe.
Here’s video of the moment in question, courtesy of NBC Bay Area.
I agree with the majority, Andrus appeared safe. But just because there is technology involved does not make the process perfect. Far from it, clearly. The officials must have thought it was too close to overturn, since the call on the field was “out.” It looks as though it’s possible that the glove may have grazed Andrus before he touched home plate. That must be what the thought was.
Here’s footage of the entire event, courtesy of YouTube. You can see Melvin’s ejection at the 2:45 mark.
Thankfully for Melvin, A’s catcher Sean Murphy hit a two-run home run and starting pitcher Sean Manaea held the Rays to a single run through five innings. Right handed pitcher Lou Trivino got the save, and the Athletics rebounded nicely after their 13-game winning streak ended on Sunday. It was business as usual for Oakland, with some theatrics thrown in, thanks to the imperfection of instant replay.
(Photo credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports)
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