During the New York Yankees’ game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Aaron Judge found himself at the center of controversy when his slide into second base appeared to interfere with a throw from Willy Adames to first.
Despite the potential interference, the play was deemed incidental, allowing the game to proceed without a double play being called. However, after the game, crew chief Andy Fletcher admitted to reporters that they had erred in their call, acknowledging that Judge’s slide indeed constituted interference.
Fletcher conceded that upon reviewing the replay, it became evident that they had missed the call during the game. He described Judge’s action as an “unnatural part of his slide,” indicating that it deviated from standard baseball maneuvers.
Brewers manager Pat Murphy also weighed in, expressing doubt over Judge’s intention but accusing him of purposefully obstructing the play. This admission by the officials and criticism from the opposing team added fuel to the debate surrounding Judge’s slide.
The controversial play occurred in the sixth inning, with Judge as the lone baserunner and no outs recorded. At that juncture, the game was tied 4-4, providing an opportunity for either team to seize momentum.
However, the Yankees capitalized on the situation, rallying to score seven runs in the inning and ultimately securing an 11-4 lead. This turn of events significantly influenced the game’s outcome, with New York emerging victorious with a final score of 15-5.
While it’s impossible to predict how the game would have unfolded with the correct call, starting the inning with a double play could have swung momentum in favor of the Brewers.
Instead, the Yankees capitalized on the situation, exploiting the opportunity to build a commanding lead. The victory improved the Yankees’ record to 19-10, while the Brewers fell to 17-10, highlighting the potential impact of umpiring decisions on game outcomes and team standings in Major League Baseball.
