In a crucial moment during World Series Game 3 between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, homeplate umpire Mark Wegner's delayed reaction proved costly for the Blue Jays, potentially impacting the outcome of the game.
The incident occurred in the second inning when Bo Bichette was on first base with a 3-1 count on Daulton Varsho facing Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow. As Glasnow threw a pitch that was deemed above the strike zone according to pitch tracking data, Wegner failed to make an immediate call. This hesitation caused Varsho to pause, believing it was ball four, and start to make his way to first base. Meanwhile, Bichette began to advance towards second base.
It was only after a moment that Wegner signaled a strike, indicating that the count was now full. Unfortunately for the Blue Jays, Bichette was caught off guard and too far from the bag, allowing the Dodgers to execute a pick-off play, resulting in a crucial out for Toronto.
Although Varsho eventually walked, the potential repercussions of Bichette getting picked off were significant. Following Varsho's walk, Alejandro Kirk hit a single to right field that could have potentially brought Bichette around to score. This turn of events could have put the Blue Jays in a promising position with runners on first and second and no outs, potentially resulting in an early lead for Toronto.
However, the pick-off effectively halted the Blue Jays' momentum. With Bichette retired, the following batters faced an uphill battle. Addison Barger struck out, and Ernie Clement lined out to center field, stifling any offensive opportunity for Toronto in that inning.
As a result of the play at first base, the Blue Jays failed to score in the inning, leaving manager John Schneider frustrated and unable to alter the course of events. The missed opportunity loomed large, potentially altering the trajectory of the game, as the Dodgers went on to secure a victory in Game 3 of the World Series.
In high-stakes games like the World Series, every play and call by the umpires can have a significant impact on the outcome. The delayed call by Wegner not only cost the Blue Jays a crucial out but also potential runs, showcasing the fine margins and split-second decisions that can define the outcome of playoff games.