David Rackley

Expert Analysis

Controversial Call at Nationals Park: Umpires Rule Intentional Drop in Dodgers-Nationals Game

Topics: Fielding

The Dodgers and Nationals played at Nationals Park on April 8, 2025. In the top of the seventh, Austin Barnes was facing Orlando Ribalta with Andy Pages on first base when Barnes hit a pop fly in the area of the pitcher’s mound. Ribalta dropped the ball then threw to first base to apparently retire…

Expert Analysis

Yankees vs Guardians Time Play

Topics: Time Play

The April 12th, 2023 Yankees-Guardians game was marked by controversy that led to the ejection of Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone and a 10-minute delay. Here is what happened. In the bottom of the first, the Indians had Steven Kwan on third and Jose Ramirez on second and one out when Josh Naylor hit a flare…

Expert Analysis

The Right of Way

Topics: Expert Analysis

It’s imperative that players on both sides of the ball understand when they have the “Right of Way.” When a fielder is attempting to make a play, the runner must avoid him. And  when a defensive player does not have possession of the ball, or is not in the act of receiving a throw, the…