Buck misses manager-umpire arguments

BALTIMORE -- The introduction of instant replay this season has curtailed the manager-umpire argument. That's a bummer for O's skipper Buck Showalter.

"I miss arguing. I do," Showalter said before Baltimore's series finale with the Blue Jays on Sunday.

Showalter has yet to use the challenge rule this season, though he's ventured onto the field at times to discuss matters with umpires -- including during Saturday's 2-1 win.

"I got out there and I said [to the first-base umpire], 'How is this working for you? I really miss arguing with you guys,'" said Showalter. "He said, 'We don't.'"

Those on-field confrontations have been a staple of the game for generations. Former Orioles manager and Hall of Famer Earl Weaver certainly had his share of arguments over his lengthy career.

"I was talking to [former Orioles catcher and current broadcaster] Rick Dempsey late last night after the game. I said, 'Can you imagine Earl not being able to vent that frustration?'" said Showalter. "Never being able to argue all year."

Ultimately, Showalter isn't that concerned that his venting days to umpires are part of the past. Replay doesn't cover all aspect of the game.

"There will still be something," Showalter said.