Random Bits: Instant Replay, Pavano, Beckett

Here’s a quick batch of newsworthy bits:

1. The MLB will begin using its new instant replay system starting tonight. Series that begin from hereon in will now use the system regularly, as it will debut in 3 separate matchups (it’ll be “everywhere” tomorrow). IR will be used to resolve important disputed calls, but I’m sure that disputed home runs will be the central focus for the replay tool. Ken Rosenthal has a nice write up about the technology being used for the system, detailing delay issues as well as how the system will work in general. Some baseball purists may not agree with it, but I think it’s great for the game and should help the game get things right (wrong isn’t necessarily “pure”).

2. Next up, Carl Pavano has been placed on waivers and will likely clear them. We’ll see what happens with this situation as it could change with the Yankees’ record. Depending on how the team does over these next few games, the Yankees could decide to cut their losses and just ship him out for anything they can get (they’ll likely pay the majority of his salary). He’s slated to start against AJ Burnett tomorrow, so we’ll simply have to wait and see how this one turns out (hey, maybe he can get us another W).

3. Finally, any bad news for the Red Sox is good news for the Yankees, as Josh Beckett’s start against the ChiSox has been scratched. Beckett was supposed to face Chicago tomorrow, but instead of seeing Alexei Ramirez, Jermaine Dye and Ken Griffey Jr., Beckett will see an even scarier foe, as he’ll meet with Dr. James Andrews (who is seemingly the only baseball doctor in the world). If the diagnosis is bleak, the Yankees could get a much needed lift in their morale (not that they’re happy to see him injured, but they’ll take what they can get), while the Sox will likely feel some pressure after losing their staff ace.