If you have the requirement to put nine men on the field, the analysis is simple.
[Caveat, I didn't watch the game, or read the reports, but there is still much that can be surmised.]
Facts known: Both teams had used all their reserves from the bench. Both teams had used all available pitchers.
Assumption: Worst case, the team that was about to take the field at the top of the 12th could not field the pitcher because he was injured. (I'm not sure I believe even my own assumption, but stay with me.) Now even in sandlot rules, if you cannot field a team, you forfeit. In MLB, once a player has been used and removed from the game, he cannot play again in the same game. No exceptions.
Selig's course should have been clear. He should have told the team that was to take the field, either take the field with nine players or forfeit.
To me, that is the team that lost.
Instead, what occurred is a farce.
The fans deserve refunds. Each and every one of them. They didn't see a baseball game. They were provided a baseball show (not the same thing). It was deceitful and disingenuous, and not keeping with the spirit of baseball.
Bud Selig, if you have integrity, step aside. You have committed an unforgiveable tragedy upon the game.
</rant>
Nice rant. Absolutely agree.
I wonder if this an example of things to come.
I think if a work stoppage occurs again, it will be very tough for the game to come back.