Expanded Use Of Video Review In 2012 Still Possible

In the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, there are three things you would probably notice on television …

One, the addition of another Wild Card in each league. You’ll definitely notice that one next October.

Two, the addition of a 26th roster spot for most double-headers. You’ll notice that if you’re paying attention.

And three, the expansion of video review to cover rulings on balls down the foul lines and plays in the outfield where the fielder might have trapped (or not trapped) the baseball.

The first two of those were done deals; the third was delayed for non-obvious reasons, and apparently delayed until 2013.

Or maybe not. Tracy Ringolsby:

Both sides indicated support of expanding instant replay, currently used on disputed calls involving potential home runs, but the details of how to handle more replays were not worked out. At the time, the indication was that additional usage of replay would have to wait until the 2013 season because of concern about an in-season rules change.

Selig, however, said that is no longer a concern.

“It was a practical matter,” Selig said of the delay on the expanded use of replays . “I think we are going to get it done on balls hit down the first and third base lines, and balls trapped in the outfield. (Manager) Mike Scioscia of the Angels is always talking about trapped balls.

“I hope we can get it done before this year is over. They are working on it now.”

Sounds like Opening Day isn’t realistic. Must be a lot more complicated than it seems. But we shouldn’t be surprised if this happens at some point in the second half of the season. And the sooner, we think, the better.