Now that’s an unexpected moment.
The Mets faced a unique challenge during their game against the Dodgers on Friday night, which unfolded in the first three innings.
In an unusual turn of events, outfielders Juan Soto and Tyrone Taylor nearly collided while attempting to catch a ball hit by Mookie Betts.
Although the Dodgers’ outfielder, formerly with the Mets, Michael Conforto, left the base before the ball was caught, he was ultimately deemed safe as he was touched before the catch was made.
As per MLB rules, a runner can advance to the next base once they’ve been tagged by a fielder, even if the ball isn’t firmly in the fielder’s possession. Conforto waited until Taylor and Soto attempted to secure the ball, and after reviewing the play, the call stood as safe following the Mets’ unsuccessful challenge.
The players appeared to be caught off guard by some of these lesser-known rules. Francisco Lindor showed visible confusion, seeking clarification from the umpires on the field.
Interestingly, Apple TV+ commentators Wayne Randazzo and Dontrelle Willis were also surprised by the ruling. Willis commented, “You learn something new every day, Wayne,” referring to the fact that runners can legally tag without the ball being caught outright by the fielder.
Former MLB umpire Brian Gorman, who was part of the broadcast, explained the situation further.
Gorman noted, “The reason behind the touch is that, unlike secure catches, an outfielder can juggle the ball, and there’s no risk for the runner to move forward.” He added, “As soon as the ball contacts the glove, the runner can take off.”
After that somewhat chaotic play, the game saw only one batter before rain caused a delay.
