The Perfectly Imperfect Game
I was out working with a team a few days ago when I got a text message from a coach whose team I working with. The text said, “Blown ump call costs Detroit pitcher a perfect game – can you believe it!” I got home and found the replay on mlb.com and sure enough couldn’t believe the call. Wasn’t even close. By now I’m sure you’ve seen the infamous Jim Joyce missed call during Armando Galarraga’s perfect game bid. But if for some reason you’ve had your head in the sand the last few days, you can watch the replay here – Galarraga’s Imperfect Perfect Game.
I’m not going to discuss the call, we all know Joyce made a mistake; I feel bad for the guy. I do want to take the opportunity to tell you the rest of the story and provide you a valuable take away. After the game, Jim Joyce found Galarraga in the clubhouse and apologized profusely to him for blowing the call. Galarraga accepted. The next day, Joyce was set to work behind the plate and was clearly emotional coming out of the tunnel. But as Peter Gammons writes in his article (video as well), Tigers, Joyce show class, all the parties involved have acted with utmost civility. This then is the lesson we must take away from this unfortunate blunder.
Too many times I watch players, coaches, and parents scream at umpires for missed calls. I know umpiring mistakes occur every game. In fact they happen all too frequently at the lower levels of baseball. But patience, class, and sportsmanship is what is needed in these times of frustration. A quick tongue only makes it more difficult to stay focused on the job at hand, regardless of your role. Plus, a missed call isn’t that big of deal. Seriously. We need more Galarraga’s out there who understand perspective.
Take a look at what utter stupidity does if you lose perspective. Remember, play the game hard, fair, and create a good image of yourself always.
