Remembering Jim Joyce Stealing Armando Galarraga's Perfect Game With One Horrific Call

Rarely does a routine ground ball mean more than it did on June 2, 2010. In what should have been the last out to seal the coveted perfect game for then Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga, umpire Jim Joyce ruled Cleveland Indians batter Jason Donald safe at first base.

With the Tigers up 3-0 on the Indians in the top of the ninth inning, Galarraga needed one more out to complete his perfect game. Donald hit a ground ball forcing Miguel Cabrera to leave his post at first base. Galarraga covered for Cabrera and caught the ball just before Donald reached the bag. The only problem, however, was that Joyce didn't think so.

Galarraga retired the next batter and the Tigers won, but the damage was done. Joyce had robbed Galarraga of his place in baseball history. There have been just 23 perfect games in MLB history. If not for the missed call on Galarraga's final out, there would be 24.

This unfortunately occurred before instant replay was enacted, so the call couldn't be overturned.

While fans have certainly neither forgotten nor forgiven Joyce, it is worth noting his heartfelt apology after the game. After recognizing his mistake, Joyce was extremely emotional and apologetic to both Galarraga and the fans. Their cooperation and sportsmanship was praised by players and coaches around the league.