It sounds like Selig has decided that he will NOT overturn the call and award the Perfecto. On one hand, I agree with you that since it was the last out, overturning the bad call would be the right way to go. But on the other hand, I think it would set a dangerous precedent. Like it or not, human error is part of the game, and under the current rules, the call can't be reversed once the game is official. Yes, this was a fairly cut-and-dry case, but the next one might not be so clear.

I have to admit, I've been VERY impressed by Galarraga's response. He's shown extreme class, when he's had every right to be upset and angry to the max. And I'm also impressed by the ump manning up, admitting his mistake and flat-out saying that his error screwed the kid out of a historic achievement. In an era when officials are way too unwilling to admit that sometimes they simply mess up, Jim Joyce's reaction has been a nice twist. Still sucks for Galarraga, but at least both guys have handled the whole situation with dignity and respect.

I do think that while the Perfecto will never show up in the record books, this fiasco could turn out to be historic in another way. This will be Exhibit #1 in the case for expanding instant replay in baseball, and it may finally get the MLB brass to give in and do the right thing. I know most purists are against it and I understand that many are afraid an expansion of replay will result in games lasting forever, but I think it could be a great thing for baseball if structured properly. They need to do it like the NFL - have a list of "challengeable" plays/calls, give each manager 2 challenges per game (with a 3rd if you "win" your first 2), and have a video replay official on site at every game for the sole purpose of conducting the reviews and relaying decisions to the on-field umpires. It may make some games a few minutes longer, but wouldn't it be worth it to ensure that key calls are correct more often? Human error is and always will be part of the game, but if technology allows you to correct critical errors in the interest of fairness, why not do it?