Watching the Braves and other MLB games this year, I have noticed particularly awful umpiring. Anywhere from tonight's call on Escobar at the plate to Bill Hohn's inconsistent strike zone, umpires have blown calls very frequently this year. So, I want to know, what is the cause of all of these blown calls that we are seeing? I personally think that MLB should institute a challenge system much like the NFL's. I know that people complain about the length of the game, but I think that the slow nature of the game is what makes it unique in comparison to other American sports. Anyways, please vote on the pole. Thanks. 

I don't know how many of you noticed, but during tonight's game, Francoeur had a twitch in his right eye. I noticed it on several occasions: on the bench, in the on deck circle, and in right field (never when he was up at bat).  Perhaps this has been going on for a while, but I have never seen it before. Have any of you?

JORDAN SCHAFER BRIAN MCCANN JEFF FRANCOEUR DEREK LOWE CHIPPER JONES JORDAN SCHAFER BRIAN MCCANN JEFF FRANCOEUR DEREK LOWE CHIPPER JONES JORDAN SCHAFER BRIAN MCCANN JEFF FRANCOEUR DEREK LOWE CHIPPER JONES JORDAN SCHAFER BRIAN MCCANN JEFF FRANCOEUR DEREK LOWE CHIPPER JONES

Braves>Mets>Phillies

Francis, 27, won seventeen games in 2007 with the NL Champion Rockies. Francis was never an overpowering pitcher but more of a "crafty-lefty." He was never viewed as an ideal ace pitcher, and would fit nicely behind Jurrjens, Vazquez, and possibly Smoltz. Francis is coming off of an awful 2008 in which he won a mere four games with an ERA of 5.01. Atlanta could probably acquire him for a few mid-level prospects and possibly a bullpen arm. In November of 2006, Francis signed an affordable four-year, 13.25 million contract with a fifth-year option. This would keep him in Atlanta for 2009, 2010, and possibly 2011. I wouldn't give up too much to get him but he would certainly add depth to an "aceless" rotation. Just speculation, but tell me what you think.