Cubs prevail after replays don't go their way

CHICAGO -- Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler sat on the fence of the dugout in the 11th inning staring at the video board at Wrigley Field. It showed the replay of him sliding into home plate, and every time a new angle came up, the crowd hollered as he looked on.

The out call was ruled to stand, but Fowler's slide was one of two replay reviews in a 2-1 win over the Royals. David Ross delivered a walk-off single two batters after Fowler's out.

Fowler raced home from second on Anthony Rizzo's single and slid feet first while trying to touch the plate with his left hand, but catcher Salvador Perez reached back to apply the tag.

Video: KC@CHC: Ross out on bunt attempt after review in 9th

Rizzo's single landed in left field, where Gold Glover Alex Gordon nearly misplayed the ball. Gordon recovered in time, though, firing the ball home and on target.

"After I bobbled it a little bit, I just threw it as hard as I could," Gordon said. "And Sal made a good play."

The call at the plate prompted Cubs manager Joe Maddon to come out and speak with home-plate umpire Bruce Dreckman and crew chief Tom Hallion.

"I know technology is wonderful, but maybe not wonderful enough," Maddon said. "I really thought he was safe, even after I saw the review. I'll absolutely say that he was safe."

Added Royals reliever Jason Frasor, who allowed the game-winning single two batters later: "I thought at first he was definitely safe. But then I kept looking at the replays and I thought, 'We got a chance.' Man, it's amazing how many times those guys [the umpires] get it right."

"Great play. Gordo had to charge hard and never could get himself set, but just flung it into Sal," Royals manager Ned Yost said.

Umpires used their discretion for the review in the 11th after Maddon unsuccessfully used his challenge in the bottom of the ninth.

Ross laid down a bunt with runners on the corners, nearly reaching first base as Royals reliever Wade Davis hesitated before firing to first. Ross was ruled out and the call was confirmed two minutes later.