[Colonel_Flagg]

The ump called the third strike, then pointed toward first -- Piersynski saw this and immediately spun around and headed to first. The ump then made the call again to make sure everyone saw it.

The umpire called strike three, but as I'm sure you're aware, whether or not Pierzynski had reached safely, the play would still go in the books as a strikeout. The umpire has to account for every pitch, just as the official scorer has to account for every base gained by a batter-runner.

The umpire signaled strike three because Pierzynski swung at the ball. He had no option. But there were eight Angels facing the play who could and should have seen the umpire point to first base, and a catcher who should have realized that in a 1-1 game in an ALCS, you make sure of the out by tagging the batter anyway. That's common practice.

In short, you're right. It is not cheating to run out a play.

[beezdotcom]

The umpire signaled strike three because Pierzynski swung at the ball. He had no option. But there were eight Angels facing the play who could and should have seen the umpire point to first base, and a catcher who should have realized that in a 1-1 game in an ALCS, you make sure of the out by tagging the batter anyway. That's common practice.

Yes, but adding to the confusion is the NEXT call - after pointing to first, he raised his fist. Soem folks are saying that's the strike call, but it sure looks like OUT to most folks.