In the second game of a day-night doubleheader between the Yanks and Red Sox at Fenway on September 12, 2023, Austin Wells was batting in the top of the ninth with the bases loaded and one out facing Nick Robertson when catcher Connor Wong was called for catcher’s interference by plate umpire Brian Knight. Everson Pereira, the runner on third, was awarded home and Wells was awarded first base.

Ruleball Comments

1. As I have stated the entire season, catcher’s interference has become a common occurrence without much respect.
2. I understand that catchers want to get as close to the plate as possible to help frame pitches for their pitcher, but with the bases loaded catchers must be aware that a run will score because runners advance, if forced, when the infraction occurs.
3. This turned a 3-1 Yankees lead into a 4-1 game which proved to be the final score.

Rich Marazzi

Rules consultant/analyst:  Angels, D’backs, Dodgers, Nationals, Orioles, Padres, Phillies, Pirates, Red Sox, Rangers, Royals, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, Yankees, Bally Sports, YES, and NBC Sports Chicago.