There was no lack of drama during Game 6 of the World Series.
With two of the world’s best pitchers in Justin Verlander and Stephen Strasberg going toe-totoe, the game remained close until the Nationals blew the it open with two runs in the top of the 7th to increase their lead to 5-2. But before they cashed in, a controversial call took place involving Nationals shortstop Trae Turner.
After a short in-field hit, Turner bolted towards first base and appeared to have a hit after Yuri Gurriel’s glove fell off. But upon review, the umpire ruled Turner out for interfering with the throw to first. The Nationals were livid from their dugout and started protesting, but Verlander’s wife Kate Upton didn’t feel the Nationals were in the right. She bluntly questioned why the review was taking so long on Twitter, pointing out that runners have to run in between the two painted lines on their way to first.
Fans were outraged by the call, arguing that Turner made his way back in line with the bag and beat the throw. MLB Chief Basbeball Officer Joe Torre described the play as a ‘judgement call’ and insisted the umpires made the right decision.
Here’s a simplified explanation of the MLB’s rule, according to it’s website:
The following is an excerpt from For The Win.
If the umpire determines that the baserunner has interfered with the player taking the throw at first base by running to the left of the foul line or to the right of the runner’s lane, the baserunner can be called for interference.
The call didn’t prove to be costly, as Anthony Rendon managed to smack a two-run shot shortly after. But fans from both teams can only hope that there’s no drama like this when Game 7 kicks off on Wednesday night.
(H/T FTW)
