Gload’s Non Home Run Proves Historical; Coghlan Hits First Homer as Big Leaguer

May 14, 2009 in Commentary, MLB News, Players by jonnylons

The score was 8-5 and Alfredo Amezaga was on 1B with Ross Gload at the plate. With a crack of the bat the ball sailed down the RF line and appeared to be a home run, putting the Marlins right back in the mix.

Instead, something historical happened: the home run was called off.

The umpiring crew got together and discussed possibly overturning the call then reviewed the play. Upon further review, the ball flew to the right of the foul pole and Gload’s home run turned into a long strike. Gload would eventually strike out and the Marlins’ efforts vanished.

This is the first time in Major League history that an umpiring crew overturned a home run upon using the opportunity to review the play. Even though it went against the Marlins, it was the right call.

Yet there was an actual home run that proved to be historical for the Marlins, Chris Coghlan hit his first ever home run as a pro.

The rookie was called up in order to replace Cameron Maybin’s spot in the outfield and as one of the better prospects in the Marlins’ system has garnered some immediate playing time. The lefty can hit for average and has shown patience at the plate. In AA last season he struck out 65 times but walked 67. He has a little pop, too, hitting 7 home runs last year and 12 in 2007. He was called up from AAA New Orleans while hitting .344 with 3 home runs in 96 at bats. He calls to mind another Marlins outfielder with great plate patience and a lefty bat, Mark Kotsay. The rookie will get playing time and with some struggling outfielders, Coghlan could help the Marlins regain some offensive prowess.