"Marlins right-hander Ricky Nolasco prides himself on being a strike thrower. That's why he was so upset when he was charged with an automatic ball in Wednesday's 7-6 win in extra innings over the Mets.

In the first inning on Wednesday, Nolasco was charged with a ball for violating a new rule. With Mets cleanup hitter Mike Jacobs at the plate, Nolasco was standing on the rubber when he brought his right fingers to his mouth.

Home-plate umpire Laz Diaz immediately called for a ball, and Nolasco protested. Crew chief Wally Bell came in to clarify, as play was halted for a few seconds. Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez sprinted onto the field to check the ruling. "