The momentary controversy over whether Yankees reliever Mariano Rivera spit on a ball is over...at least, in the eyes of the MLB. The Commissioner's office spokesman said, "From the available video and still pictures that we have, there's no evidence that Rivera spit on the ball."

Los Angeles Angels fan blog HalosHeaven suggested that the Sandman doctored the ball, but the Post reports, "On still pictures in MLB's possession, it apparently looks as if Rivera is spitting near, but not on, the ball. Also, as even the league office is aware, Rivera is a player who spits constantly while in action." A Deadspin reader also offered a close reading of the footage showing that the spit is near, but not on, the ball. Which brings up this clip: