Josh Naylor’s Controversial Move in ALCS Game 7

Josh Naylor took the concept of “use your head” to an unexpected level on Monday night.

During the first inning of Game 7 in the ALCS, the Mariners’ first baseman attempted to disrupt what would’ve been an inning-ending double play. He used his body to interfere with Ernie Clement’s throw to first base at Rogers Center.

Naylor jumped into the throw’s path, causing the ball to soar into the air, which allowed Jorge Polanco to cross home plate first.

However, after a discussion among the umpires, they ruled it a double play because Naylor had deliberately interfered with Clement’s throw.

While Naylor’s choice to act as a human shield was certainly eye-catching, the reaction from Blue Jays starting pitcher Shane Bieber also drew attention. A former teammate of Naylor’s from Cleveland, Bieber voiced his disbelief as he watched the play unfold.

“What are you doing?” he exclaimed upon seeing the play.

The inning concluded with the double play, leading into the bottom of the first with the Mariners ahead by one run due to Naylor’s earlier hit. But the Blue Jays responded quickly, tying the game with a single from Dalton Varsho that brought George Springer across the plate.

At that moment, the score was level at 3-3 in the seven-game American League Championship Series. The victor will move on to face the Dodgers in the World Series.