Batter Inference NOT Called
The Phillies and Diamondbacks played at Chase Field on September 19, 2025. In the top of the sixth, Nick Castellanos struck out looking on a 3-2 pitch from Jalen Beeks with Brandon Marsh on first base and one out. Marsh stole second on the pitch. After Castellanos struck out, he walked into the throwing lane…
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…
Poor Time Play Execution
The Padres and Mets played at Citi Field on September 17, 2025. In the top of the sixth inning, the Padres had Elías Díaz on second and Fernando Tatis Jr. on first with two outs when Luis Arraez hit safely to right field. The ball was fielded by Juan Soto, who gunned down Arraez at…
When Basepaths Collide: Understanding Runner Interference and Baseball’s “Right of Way”
I once read that car accidents are often caused by a driver who didn’t see the other driver. I’m sure in some situations, neither driver saw the other. This is true in the game of baseball when a runner impedes a defensive player from making a play or a defensive player hinders a runner who…