The Bizarre Walk-Off That Was Almost Ruined by a Dugout Celebration
In a Pacific Coast League game between Triple-A Reno (D-backs) and Albuquerque (Rockies) on May 21, 2025, at Greater Nevada Field, chaos ensued when the home team celebrated a bit prematurely. Here’s how the play was basically reported: With Reno trailing 4-3 in the bottom of the ninth inning and one out, Connor Kaiser delivered…
Defensive Shift Violation
The Mariners and Royals played at Kauffman Stadium on September 18, 2025. In the top of the eighth, Dominic Canzone was facing Stephen Kolek with one out when he hit a ground ball to second baseman Michael Massey, who tossed to first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino for the apparent 4–3 out. But Mariners manager Dan Wilson…
August 2025 Question and Answer
Question #1 In the Red Sox-Angels game on June 23, 2025, it appeared that Angels’ third baseman Luis Rengifo had illegally blocked second base when tagging out Abraham Toro. Why wasn’t Rengifo called for obstruction in this play? Answer The Angels hosted the Red Sox on June 23rd. In the top of the fifth, the…
Nationals’ 2025 Catch/No Catch Trap Plays: Triple Play and Rare 7-3 Putout Spark Debate
The Washington Nationals have been involved in two catch/no catch trap plays during the 2025 season that have created interesting situations. The Mets and Nationals played at Nationals Park on April 25, 2025 when an unusual triple play took place. It was the second triple play of the season, joining the Rockies’ trifecta on April…
The Ohtani Rule
Curious about the Ohtani Rule? ⚾ In this video, we break down the special rule that lets Shohei Ohtani (and other two-way players) stay in the lineup as a hitter even after they’re done pitching. Learn why MLB created the rule, how it works, and what it means for the future of baseball strategy. From…
Inside the Hidden Ball Trick
The hidden ball trick in baseball can be a thrilling or humbling experience, depending on your role. For the fielder who executes this sly maneuver, it’s a moment of triumph. For the unsuspecting baserunner, it’s a lesson in embarrassment. Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Chris Welsh explains how to pull off the hidden ball trick, clarifies the…
Should MLB Examine and Update Catch Rule?
In a recent play, Cincinnati Reds left fielder Tyler Callihan demonstrates remarkable effort, catching a ball in fair territory before crashing into the wall and falling to the ground, causing the ball to dislodge from his glove. Per Major League Baseball’s catch rule, a fielder must hold the ball long enough to prove complete control,…
Infielder Cannot Intentionally Drop a Pop-Up
In a play involving a line drive caught by the shortstop, the fielder intentionally drops the ball and flips it to the second baseman to attempt a double play. The umpire, recognizing the deliberate drop, makes an immediate judgment call. The correct ruling returns the runner from first base to first and declares the batter-runner…
September 2024 Baseball Rules Question and Answer
QUESTION #1 Minor League game…There’s a runner on third. Following the pitch to the batter the runner walked back toward third base but never touched the base. For some reason, he went around the base toward left field and never retouched third base as he retook his lead. Is this a violation? Can the defensive…
August 2024 MLB Rules Question and Answer
Play #1 QUESTION: It’s possible that Red Sox catcher Danny Jansen will appear in the box scores for opposing teams in the same game on Monday August 26, 2024 when Boston and Toronto meet at Fenway Park. How can a player play for both teams in the same game? And is this the first time…