NEW YORK (Reuters) - Major League Baseball will consider expanding the use of instant replay after a botched call by an umpire cost a Detroit Tigers pitcher a perfect game, Commissioner Bud Selig said Thursday.
A baserunner was incorrectly ruled safe by umpire Jim Joyce with two outs in the ninth inning when the correct call would have given Armando Galarraga MLB's 21st perfect game.
"As Jim Joyce said in his postgame comments, there is no dispute that last night's game should have ended differently," Selig said in a statement.
"While the human element has always been an integral part of baseball, it is vital that mistakes on the field be addressed.
"Given last night's call and other recent events, I will examine our umpiring system, the expanded use of instant replay and all other related features."
Selig has long opposed wide use of replays and only two seasons ago approved replays on questionable home runs.
The commissioner gave no timetable for a decision, but indicated it could take some time.
"Before I announce any decisions, I will consult with all appropriate parties, including our two unions and the Special Committee for On-Field Matters, which consists of field managers, general managers, club owners and presidents," he said.
Selig praised all parties involved in the controversial end of Wednesday's game, including the umpire, who was clearly upset after seeing on replay that he had botched the call.
"On behalf of Major League Baseball, I congratulate Armando Galarraga on a remarkable pitching performance," Selig said. "All of us who love the game appreciate the historic nature of his effort last night.
"The dignity and class of the entire Detroit Tigers organization under such circumstances were truly admirable and embodied good sportsmanship of the highest order.
"Armando and Detroit manager Jim Leyland are to be commended for their handling of a very difficult situation. I also applaud the courage of umpire Jim Joyce to address this unfortunate situation honestly and directly."
(Reporting by Larry Fine, Editing by Steve Ginsburg)
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