Cleveland Indians: Tribe Narrowly Escapes Being on Wrong Side of History

6 - 2 - 10     at Detroit     L, 3 - 0     19 - 32

      Armando Galarraga, a little known pitcher who had spent ten years in the minor leagues, was one out away from a perfect game on a warm evening in Detroit.  The crowd of more than 17,000 were on their feet when Jason Donald hit a groundball on the right side of the infield.  For some reason, first - baseman Miguel Cabrera ranged far to his right to scoop up the bouncer in front of second - baseman Carlos Guillen.  Cabrera's throw to Galarraga still beat Donald, and the Tigers and their fans began celebrating baseball history.  However, one guy in the ballpark thought differently, and that was first base umpire Jim Joyce, who called Donald safe at first, ending the perfect game and the no - hitter.  Although Galarraga retired the next batter, cementing a Detroit win, the game still left a bitter taste in the mouths of all who participated in it.
     The play has quickly become one of the more controversial in decades.  I think there is a simple explanation for all of this; the perfecto simply was not meant to be.  How else do you explain Cabrera's actions on the play?  In a normal situation, Cabrera, who is not known for his defensive abilities, would have allowed Guillen to field the ball because he had a better angle on the play.  Yet, for some reason, Cabrera tried to play the role of hero, and the play became closer than it should have been.  The second question is why did Jim Joyce, one of the best umps in baseball, miss the call?  Joyce had a great view, and he still called Donald safe even though it was apparent that Donald did not beat the throw.
     All of this adds up to a frustrating near - perfecto by Galarraga, and another dissapointing loss for the Tribe.