Another article by Dave Cameron addressing the inconsistencies of umpires.
You hear a lot of talk about how inconsistent pitchers are, especially young pitchers. From start to start, the variations in performance can be drastic. However, we have to keep in mind that it isn’t just the pitcher’s stuff or command that’s a variable on any given day, but the opposing team, the park, the weather, and yes, the umpire.
This may be heresy to some, but I want to see computers calling balls and strikes. They already have 'K-Zone' on ESPN, 'Pitch F/X' on MLB Gameday, and various other pitch-tracking systems. They are totally impartial (no veteran/rookie bias), always consistent from game to game, and take just as much time as an actual umpire. I really don't see a downside.
- FYI, B.J. Ryan was released by Toronto after a terrible year. Is he worth a flier, maybe as a lefty specialist?
- Baseball America released its 'Midseason Top 25 Prospects' list. Jesus Montero ranks third while Austin Jackson gets an honorable mention.