The Human Element

Presented, by means of the TexasLeaguers’ Pitch/FX Database, the top of the ninth inning of last night’s game. Please pay attention to the two green dots inside the box.

Drew Storen, October 12, 2012, as called by Alfonso Marquez.

The first green dot came during Allen Craig’s at-bat. It didn’t matter, because Craig struck out.

The second meant all the difference: The second green dot was to Yadier Molina. If that call had been correct, the Nats would have won.

Touched by an Angel

Called strikes: Angel Hernandez on Bryce Harper, Aug. 8, 2012. Note the red dots outside the box.

All of Nats town is about ready to kill umpire Angel Hernandez for his lousy officiating of last night’s Nats v. Astros game.

Thanks to the magic of Pitch/FX and the most excellent Texasleaguers Pitch/FX Database, I present to you, without further comment, a plot of pitches that Angel Hernandez called strikes on Bryce Harper.