Controversy With Sox Victory

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Oct 13, 2005 2:00PM

Wow! What a finish to Game 2 of the ALCS. A 1-1 game in the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs, A.J. Pierzynski struck out and the game appeared to be heading to extra innings. But Pierzynski ran to first in case of a dropped third strike and was called safe. The replays are inconclusive at best, the umpires claimed they saw a change in direction during post-game viewings of the play, but even Chicagoist admits it looked like Angels catcher Josh Paul caught the ball.

With Pierzynski called safe, Ozzie Guillen sent Pablo Ozuna in to run for him. Ozuna stole second base, and then Joe Crede smashed a double off the wall in far left field. Ozuna scored, Sox won!

What will probably be overlooked because of the controversy in the bottom of the 9th inning was the brilliant pitching in the game. Jerrod Washburn went 4 2/3 innings allowing only 1 unearned run before giving way to a bullpen that held the Sox scoreless until the game-winning run. For the Sox, Mark Buehrle was dominant! He pitched all 9 innings allowing only 1 run on 5 hits and was going to continue into the 10th if needed. There were questions about whether he could pitch in a big game, but he certainly showed he can.

Controversy aside, the Sox even the series 1-1 as they head to Anaheim for three this weekend. Jon Garland pitches on Friday -- the first appearance of the post-season for the Sox winningest pitcher. John Lackey will start for the Angels. That game should be another pitchers' duel. And let's hope it's controversy-free!

Photo via Yahoo!News