Pedant’s Corner
Note to the Wall Street Journal: It’s the “Rule 5 Draft,” not the “Rule V Draft.” The error is one that I’d normally let slide, but the article itself contains evidence that this was not some typo:
The Rule V draft fits perfectly in the lexicon of baseball, where words like “non-tendered,” “infield fly,” and “non-waiver trade deadline” cause casual fans to scratch their heads in bewilderment. (To answer the usual first question – V is a Roman numeral, not a letter.)
In the WSJ’s defense, hey, even a wrong answer is an answer.
Reminds me of my favorite movie: V for Vendetta. His room number was V (for 5). Can’t believe this passed the editor.
Paul DePodesta refers to it as the Rule V Draft on his blog. The confusion seems to extend beyond the WSJ.
I use Rule V, always have. I also use Rule IV. I checked BA and they use Rule 5. In all things minor league, defer to BA.
The WSJ has really gone to pot since the Murdoch takeover.