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The law of possession: MLB clarifies meaning for infielders

Rays second baseman Ben Zobrist bobbles the ball as the Royals’ Alcides Escobar slides into second base. (Associated Press)
Associated Press
Rays second baseman Ben Zobrist bobbles the ball as the Royals’ Alcides Escobar slides into second base. (Associated Press)

Baseball clarified the meaning of possession for infielders trying to turn double plays on forceouts, saying on Friday that they must have complete control of the ball but may drop it after intentionally opening their gloves for transfers to their throwing hands.

In the first season of expanded instant replay, when infielders have possession while trying to turn double plays has become controversial.

Major League Baseball said the interpretation of the Playing Rules Committee was agreed to by MLB, the players’ association and the umpires’ union.

MLB said that the committee, chaired by New York Mets general manager Sandy Alderson, said, “There is no requirement that the fielder successfully remove the ball from his glove in order for it be ruled a catch.

“If the fielder drops the ball while attempting to remove it to make a throw, the umpires should rule that the ball had been caught, provided that the fielder had secured it in his glove before attempting the transfer.”

The committee also said “the umpires will continue to use their judgment as to whether the fielder had complete control over the ball before the transfer.”

Brewers honor Uecker with statue

The Brewers unveiled a new statue of the longtime radio broadcaster Bob Uecker in the last row of the upper deck behind home plate at Miller Park. It’s a nod to the popular 1980s Lite beer “All Stars” campaign that featured a cast of sports celebrities, including Uecker, who has served as the Brewers radio voice since 1971.

One of the classic Miller Lite ads features Uecker anticipating a move to front-row seats only to wind up in the upper reaches of the ballpark.

Fittingly, the statue’s location features a view partially blocked by a steel beam.

Fans can take photos next to the statue for a fee that goes to charity.

Clearing the bases

The Chicago White Sox claimed right-handed reliever Hector Noesi off waivers from the Texas Rangers. … Angels manager Mike Scioscia says setup man Joe Smith will step into the closer role until Ernesto Frieri works out his problems. … Pittsburgh Pirates closer Jason Grilli was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left oblique. … The San Diego Padres put third baseman Chase Headley on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right calf and called up two players from the minors.