Bud Selig: MLB Does Not Need More Video Replay Right Now

Bud Selig, Major League Baseball Commissioner, told a small group on Wednesday that he doesn’t believe more video review of umpires’ calls is necessary, at least right now.

Selig, who was previously reluctant to add replay for umpires, instituted the practice in August of 2008 for use during boundary calls on potential home runs, according to ESPN.

Now, however, the MLB is seeking to increase video review for calls, such as for trapped balls, fair-or-foul rulings down the lines and fan interference all over the ballpark. These changes, require the approval of the commission, as well as the unions who represent players and umpires, The Detroit Free Press writes.

They have also said that any expansion on the program has been delayed until at least 2013.

Selig has indicated that adding replays for balls that are hit down the line, as well as for trapped balls, may be in the future, but he also reported that:

“I’ve had very, very little pressure from people who want to do more.”

Bud Selig, who has been teaching sports law at Marquette University Law School in Milwaukiee, Wisconsin for the past four years, states that he hopes to retire after his extended commission in 2014, according to The Detroit Free Press. Few people in the MLB world believe him, however, as this is not the first time he has said he will retire.

The Baseball Commissioner also stated that he is looking forward to seeing Wednesday night’s game between Philadelphia and Washington. The last time the two played, according to ESPN, Cole Hamels of the Phillies pitched against teenage rookie Bryce Harper of the Nationals, and deliberately hit Harper with a pitch.

Selig stated of Hamel’s admission post-game that he deliberately pegged the 19-year-old Harper that:

“Sometimes, some things are better unsaid. But I have to let that thing play out. I think the discipline was fair. I think we handled it well. Cole Hamels has been great since then. Harper’s been good. Both clubs have been good. I didn’t hear from either club.”

What do you think of Bud Selig’s lack of interest towards implementing more video replay for umpires?