DETROIT TIGERS: UMPIRE RUINS PERFECT GAME

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Armando Galarraga pitched a gem today.  He was one out away from a perfect game when Cleveland Indians’ shortstop Jason Donald grounded to the second baseman and hustled down the line for a bang bang play.  The ump called him safe but replays later show that he was CLEARLY out.  Instead of pitching a perfect game, Galarraga just got a complete game shutout, 1 hitter.  It almost would have been better if the 2nd baseman bobbled the ball.  At least Galarraga would have gotten a no-hitter.  Credit to umpire Jim Joyce for admitting fault after the game, its a tough job and a tougher call.  He should’ve however erred on the side of history. Now comes the big issue, is baseball ready for instant replay?  The NBA, NFL and NHL all have certain forms of it.  I know that baseball games are long enough, but commissioner Bud Selig needs to wake up.  This is a perfect example of why instant replay is needed.  This kid missed out on being a part of history. A perfect game doesn’t come around that often (sure there have been 2 already this season but only 20 in MLB history). He would’ve been the first in Tigers’ history to achieve that feat. He probably will never get that close to a perfect game again. Time to rally the “instant replay” supporters, because it might cost a team a World Series ring one of these days. Then the mayhem will begin.

KEVIN GARNETT: I HATE TO LOSE

This was the Kevin Garnett that I once loved.  The “Big Ticket.” Truly one of the best power forwards to every play the game.  Inside, outside… all around. The best player to ever don a Minnesota Timberwolves jersey (though that’s not saying much). He was humble, respected the game. Now he’s with the enemy, the Boston Celtics.  Three years ago, this guy brought some toughness, some hope for the Boston Celtics.  First year with his new team, 1 ring.  3rd year, back to the Show. He’s turned that humility into swagger, confidence.  Some might say he’s taken it too far with the gangsta attitude. But the only thing that matters right now is the next 7 games.   This guy is gonna pose the biggest problem for the Lakers.  Ron Artest should be able to contain Paul Pierce.  Kobe Bryant should be able to keep Rondo in check.  Cancel out Bynum and Perkins (although I actually think Kendrick Perkins is actually a tougher player).  But the problem is going to be the PF slot.  KG has been playing like he’s 15 again. He’s gonna pull the Spaniard out, kill him from range.  Then as soon as Gasol steps out to guard him, Garnett’s gonna put in on the ground and go past him.  He can also post up Gasol and is a bjillion times tougher and more intense than Gasol. This series isn’t about flashy.  This is gonna be a dirty series, a bloody knuckles series.  I’m hoping I see a new Gasol this series.  I’m hoping that the Lakers give Pau a chance to establish himself against KG. Maybe even throw it down on the ticket. Because if you don’t punch the bully in the mouth, he’s gonna take your lunch money. And in this case, this lunch money’s worth about a year’s worth of bragging rights and something blingy for your ring finger. And if the Lakers don’t pull it out, I’m gonna be seeing nightmares of this guy’s mug for the next year.