With the Rockies clinging to a 5-4 lead, Derek Norris doubled to left field to start the inning. San Diego interim manager Pat Murphy went to his bench for a pinch-hitter, Spangenberg.
Spangenberg, who has the best speed on the team, put down a bunt in order to move Norris to third base. When Rockies pitcher Tommy Kahnle was slow to get the ball, he rushed a throw to first base. Spangenberg was called out.
But Murphy challenged the play and got it overturned.
"It [speed element] makes the defense bear down and have to concentrate in the ninth inning.