Flashback #61: Game 2 ALCS - Pierzynski/Paul (2005)

As of 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these "flashbacks" have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary page.

October 12, 2005 - Game 2 of the ALCS: Pierzynski/Paul

After losing Game 1 of the ALCS, Game 2 was must-win.

As the White Sox and Angels were tied 1-1 in the bottom of the ninth inning at U.S. Cellular Field, catcher A.J. Pierzynski swung and missed at a low pitch from Angels pitcher Kelvim Escobar for strike three.

After the strikeout, which would have been the third out of the inning, Angels catcher Josh Paul casually rolled the ball toward the pitcher's mound before heading to the dugout to prepare for extra innings.

Pierzynski realized strike three had been called, but he had not been called out, so he ran to first base in hopes the umpire would rule that Paul had dropped strike three. That's when home plate umpire Doug Eddings ruled the ball hit the ground and then went into the catcher's glove,meaning Paul would have had to tag Pierzynski.

The end result meant Pierzysnki was safe after first.

Pablo Ozuna pinch-ran for Pierzysnki. Ozuna stole second base before Joe Crede ripped a single to score the game-winning run.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary »