HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Red Sox-Jays Delay from Bizarre Play

ESPN MLB •
×

A chaotic play during Monday's Red Sox-Jays game caused a 16-minute delay after Anthony Seigler scored without tagging up. With two outs in the seventh inning, Ceddanne Rafaela's fly ball was caught, but Seigler crossed home plate before Nick Sogard was out at first. Umpires consulted MLB's replay center, citing rule 5.09(c)(4), which allows runs to score if an appeal play is sustained. Seigler's run was awarded, giving Toronto two runs. Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy called it 'very weird,' as both teams appeared confused. The incident highlighted how appeal plays can override standard outs.

The confusion stemmed from the scoreboard incorrectly showing two outs despite only one being recorded. When Seigler reached home plate before Sogard's out, Toronto players assumed the inning ended. However, the rules check clarified that Seigler's untagged run stood. Blue Jays reliever Simeon Woods Richardson and catcher Brandon Valenzuela left the field prematurely, unaware of the play's resolution. The delay underscored the complexity of appeal plays in baseball.

Chris Guccione, the crew chief, explained the rule's nuances to both managers. He emphasized that the defensive team 'left the field' when infielders exited fair territory, triggering the appeal play review. The Blue Jays' center fielder Brett Batemen made the catch, but his involvement didn't resolve the out count. The Red Sox's Chad Tracy noted players on both sides struggled to grasp the situation, adding to the surreal atmosphere.

The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly baseball's rules can create confusion. While rare, such scenarios test umpires' and managers' ability to adapt. The 16-minute delay, though disruptive, ensured the correct application of rule 5.09(c)(4), which prioritizes appeal play decisions over standard outs.