chicagotribune.com
Reds' protest unlikely to pay off
By Dave van Dyck
Tribune staff reporter
11:54 PM CDT, September 17, 2007
Although the Reds announced they would play Monday night's 7-6 loss to the Cubs under protest, they do not have a legitimate case, according to umpire crew chief Rick Reed.
The supposed violation came in the top of the sixth inning when Cubs manager Lou Piniella walked to the mound to remove pitcher Michael Wuertz.
Piniella crossed the foul line, then told Reed he would be making a double switch.
Cincinnati manager Pete Mackanin immediately argued and then protested, stating the rules claim a manager has to go directly to an umpire before making a double switch.
"Why I knew the rule is because it happened to me," Mackanin said.
But Reed said the umpiring manual book, separate from the official rules, does indeed allow for a manager to make a switch after crossing the foul line — if it is on the first visit to the mound.
Reed read Rule 3.5 from the manual: "There is no requirement the manager or coach announce to the umpire a double switch before coming across the foul line."
Reed then said, "On the first trip the manager has the option, as long as he doesn't call the pitcher in and make that move first, to make that double switch after he gets to the mound."
The Reds can continue with the protest, which is reported to cost $25,000, or they can withdraw it. Reed will send the information to the commissioner's office, which would make a final ruling if the Reds follow through with their protest.