Oops! Reds get caught batting out of order

Last update: May 12, 2008 - 1:01 AM

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NEW YORK – It took umpires and managers 10 minutes to sort out the confusion when Cincinnati Reds backup catcher David Ross batted out of order in the ninth inning of Sunday’s 8-3 loss to the Mets.

After Ross lined out to lead off the inning, Mets manager Willie Randolph pointed out that outfielder Corey Patterson should have been the No. 8 hitter, ahead of Ross, after an earlier double switch.

After the discussion, Patterson was charged with an out without ever having come to the plate. Ross hit again, in his rightful No. 9 spot, and singled.

Reds manager Dusty Baker took responsibility for the mixup. He said he batted out of order once himself and hit a three-run homer his second go-round.

Crew chief Dale Scott said he had never seen it happen in 23 years of umpiring. “Batting out of order can be one of the more confusing rules,” he said.

ASSOCIATED PRESS