Bizarre Game Ending Play at 3rd Base Gives Twins 6-5 Win!

Despite the resulting argument by Ranger's Manager (and
former Twin Ron Washington, middle, in cool shades) the
Rangers were the unfortunate victims of the baseball rule book!

With the Texas Rangers driving to tie the game, the unexpected happened: on a Vlad Guerrero basehit (click to see video!) base hit up the middle, one run scored to push the score against the Twins and reliever Matt Capps to 6-5. Unfortunately, trailing runner Michael Young, seasoned veteran, overran third, his momentum carrying him close and into contact with third base coach Dave Anderson.

Under baseball rule 7.09, "It is interference by a batter or runner when, in the judgement of the umpire the base coach at third base, or first base, by touching or holding the runner, physically assists him in returning to or leaving third base or first base."

Third base umpire Alfonso Marquez immediately called runner Young out, even though it appears to be incidental contact.  Does that constitute "assisting" the baserunner? Doubtful, but it amounts to a nice, early Christmas gift to all of us in Twins Territory...I think therefore it's a GREAT RULE (of course, there may be other opinions as to its application, in this instance). Thus, the ruling held, giving the Twins a three game sweep of the Western Division leading Rangers!  Great timing as the Twins' nearest rival, the Chicago Stinking White Sox, won their 6th consecutive road game out of a ten game swing.  The Twins currently hold a 3.5 game lead in the American League's Central Division.

Great day and weekend, as the Twins celebrated their 50th Anniversary in the American League, culminating in the hilarious Twins "Legends" game that preceded the contest. Videos and photos of the same will folow!

May Your Taters Fly Far!
Twinkler Out