Wash re-airs concerns about transfer rule

ARLINGTON -- Manager Ron Washington is in favor of replay reviews but is still not happy with the way the transfer rule is being called and the Rangers have again voiced their concerns with the Commissioner's Office.

"They understand. … We'll see how they fix it," Washington said. "If they don't fix it, it will be a travesty. There will be people all around the game dropping balls. It happens."

It happened to the Rangers in the sixth inning on Monday night. With the bases loaded, one out and a grounder back to the mound, catcher J.P. Arencibia took a throw from pitcher Pedro Figueroa on a force play at home and then bobbled the ball on the transfer from the glove to his throwing hand. The runner was originally out and then reversed after a challenge by Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon.

The umpires, through review, are making players take the ball out of the glove and complete a successful transfer to the throwing hand. Otherwise the forced runner or a batter on a fly ball will be called safe.

In the past, runners were usually out on force plays or catches in the outfield if the umpire determined the fielder had caught the ball and had dropped it transferring it to the throwing hand.

"Overall [replay] is good," Washington said. "They are getting plays right, there are just issues that need to be fixed. Infielders drop balls all the time. Now guys who are out are getting bases."

Washington was ejected from Monday's game for arguing after the play had been reviewed. Washington knew he would get ejected but seems intent on bringing attention to the rule even if he'll likely have to pay a $500 fine for being tossed.

"My actions may not make anything happen," Washington said. "I may have to do it again in two months. But I felt I had to do it."