Every now and then sport gives you the opportunity to not only prove yourself as an athlete, but as a human being as well. This week, Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga took that opportunity.
On Wednesday, Galarraga was chasing that most elusive of feats, not just in baseball but in all sports; the perfect game. Only 20 players in MLB history have ever achieved it.
A perfect pitching game requires you to have successfully retired 27 consecutive batters, three in each of the nine innings without allowing a hit or surrendering a walk. Galarraga had 26 outs when history was interrupted.
Cleveland Indian Jason Donald hit a mistimed ball through the infield. Galarraga raced to first base to receive the throw and complete his perfect game. However, as he caught the ball, first base umpire Jim Joyce adjudged the throw to be too late and Donald was safe.
Galarraga allowed a slight wry smile to cross his lips before dropping his head in defeat. This is where the story becomes legend. His coaching staff and team-mates, having seen the replay and the fact that Donald was indeed out, launched into a tirade at the umpire who remained steadfast in his decision.
The game eventually continued and Detroit were victorious. After the game Joyce had a chance to see his mistake replayed over and over again and he was devastated. In his 22 year career he, as have all umpires, has made many mistakes. But none that have cost a player a spot in history.
Galarraga was disappointed that he had missed out but was nonetheless happy with his game and held no ill will towards umpire Joyce. Mistakes happen, we move on.
The next day, Detroit and Cleveland were due to play again and Jim Joyce was rostered on to be the home plate umpire. He was given the choice to not umpire the game but he chose to do his job.
He strode out to the middle of the diamond to a mixture of boos and claps from the fans and went to receive the starting lineups from the managers.
He was greeted by Armando Galarraga who had the Detroit lineup in his hand. Galarraga extended his hand and shook not only Joyce’s hand but also his composure. As Joyce wiped away tears at the gesture, Galarraga patted him on the back and said good luck before returning to the bench to rapturous applause.
Armando Galarraga had not only passed the test of baseball skill, he had passed the test of his character with flying colours.
After missing out on a spot in baseball history he assured himself a place in sporting folklore. In a sporting landscape dominated by money and fame, he proved there is still a place for sportsmanship and grace.
Sport still has a heart. Thanks for showing it to us, Armando Galarraga.
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